I thought now would be a great time to review my experience of being an electric vehicle driver, especially as we celebrate National Plugged-In Day. A year ago I was debating my driving needs, how my life would be changing over the coming year, and what type of vehicle I would need. After reviewing the Ford Escort, VW Golf TDI, Chevy Volt, Cooper Mini and the Nissan Leaf, I picked the Leaf. With fear. Would the fear of "turtle-ing" put me on the side of the highway without AAA to come and get me? How would my life style change with my electric vehicle? What wouldn't I be able to do?
Nothing.
Not one of these fears ever came true in my year of travelling. Electra has quickly, efficiently, and cleanly taken me every where I have wanted to go. She has hauled groceries, bikes, dogs, kids, co-workers, family, and synchronized swimmers all over Tampa and Denver. Her range has never been less than 85, and she has managed snow, ice, mountains, beaches, and highways with no trouble. She's heated me and chilled me. Her navigation got me un-lost, and her pep pulled me off the front-line faster than any car I've raced her against.
I have not one complaint about Electra. I would lease her again. I can't wait to see what Nissan brings for 2014.
I will complain about the lack of infrastructure in Denver to support electric vehicles. I really thought Colorado would be much better than Tampa, but I am finding Denver's charging stations and the presence of Charge Point minimal. The fact that the Denver aiport doesn't have an EV station is disheartening, although I give big shout outs to Canopy's off-site parking, which does.
A few things I thought I would do but haven't:
- I never upgraded my power in my house to support a higher charge for Electra. I have never felt I needed it, as the trickle charge is working just fine for me.
- I thought I would need to drive my husband's Prius many more times for "just in case" scenarios, but Electra's range is accurate and reliable.
- I thought I would lose weight because I wouldn't be buying as many snacks from stops at gas stations--I haven't been in a gas station in a year, but I still weigh the same.
- I thought people would ask me more questions about Electra, but they haven't.
- I thought I might run over someone because Electra is so quiet--I haven't, but the opportunity has presented itself way too many times.
I am thrilled with my first year as an electric vehicle owner. Still contemplating buying an electric vehicle? Do not hesitate. I love my Nissan Leaf. Email me if you want to discuss your decision!
