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Choosing Your EV

Choosing your electric vehicle.

Discover all the options on the market today.

There are now more than 60 different models of electric cars available in North America. New models offer great performance and technology, and many received a 5-star safety rating. The average price for an electric car has dropped, and when combined with the federal tax credit of up to $7,500, EVs are quickly becoming an affordable option for nearly everyone.

EV Maintenance

people underneath car on lift in repair shop
  • Maintaining an EV could not be easier. In addition to saving money on things like oil changes, tune ups, brake replacements and fluid flushing, you’ll save time. EVs typically require less maintenance than conventional vehicles because:
    • The battery, motor, and associated electronics require little to no regular maintenance
    • There are fewer fluids, such as engine oil, that require regular maintenance
    • Brake wear is significantly reduced due to regenerative braking
    • There are far fewer moving parts relative to a conventional gasoline engine.
  • The most regular maintenance you’ll be required to do with an electric car is replacing the windshield wipers and tires.

EV vs. Hybrid

Learn about the differences between a fully electric car and a hybrid electric car.
Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) Fully Electric Vehicles (EVs)
Powered by batteries until the energy is depleted, and then they switch to gas power. Powered solely by batteries.
Require oil changes and other combustion engine-related maintenance. Do not have a combustion engine, reducing maintenance and increasing storage capacity.
Can travel anywhere from 10 to 53 miles solely on their battery. There are no tailpipe emissions.
Have enough range for the average American's commute so most daily driving would be electric, and the combustion engine allows flexibility for long-distance travel. Some cars can travel from 150 up to 335 miles on a single charge, depending on the model.
Using regenerative braking, the car can recharge the batteries instead of wearing down the brake pads when braking. Using regenerative braking, the car can recharge the batteries instead of wearing down the brake pads when braking.
Batteries are charged by plugging the car into a standard electrical outlet or charging station. Batteries are charged by plugging the car into a standard electrical outlet or charging station.
Are eligible for the federal tax credit up to $7,500, depending on battery size. Are eligible for the full $7,500 federal tax credit.

Used EV Buying Guide

The wide variety of new EVs on the market has increased the number of used EVs as well. Customers looking for a used vehicle have many more options today. You can search multiple car websites for vehicles near you. See this helpful guide of purchasing considerations for a used EV.

  • Benefits of EVs

    Electric cars are better for the planet and can help you save on fuel and maintenance costs.

  • Charging your EV

    There are many options for charging your car at home, in public and on the road.

  • EV Initiatives

    We’re helping promote electric vehicles (EVs) and expand charging infrastructure.

  • Electric Vehicle Tax Credits

    See legislation updates and eligibility for clean vehicle tax credits and incentives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Duke Energy is not affiliated with the manufacturers or vendors, does not expressly or implicitly warrant the performance of the products and is not liable for any damage caused by these products or for any damage caused by the malfunction of these products. Any non-Duke Energy logo or trademark is owned by its respective manufacturer or its assignee. Duke Energy, 400 South Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC 28202.