An Electric Car Purchase Process Offers a Few Twists
An electric vehicle (EV) changes the drivetrain and your approach at the automotive dealership. You’re more concerned about the battery range than the gas mileage, and may need to do a bit more prep before you head to the dealer.
From tax incentives to software features, you have new priorities in your buying process. Here’s a breakdown of how EVs are different from traditional car buying.
The Differences When Buying an EV
The electric Mercedes-Benz E-class (EQE) looks similar to gas-powered cars from the outside. However, the buying process takes you on a different route. Here are five primary differences when buying an EV.
1. Test Drives
Test-driving any car before buying is essential. However, it means more when purchasing an EV because it could be your first time driving one. This practice session could help you learn about regenerative braking and one-pedal driving. The salesperson will show you the different power restoration levels and how to gauge the state of charge.
2. Pricing
EVs are typically more expensive than gas-powered cars due to the cost of lithium-ion batteries. A 2025 Cox Automotive report says a new EV cost over $58,000 in December—a 2.4% increase from 2024. Pricing can be more complicated, depending on the dealer’s marketing.
3. EV Incentives
Buyers can earn tax credits when buying an EV—a stark difference from traditional car shopping. The federal government rebate of up to $7,500 went away late last year, but that doesn’t mean incentives are gone. Some manufacturers are covering all or part of the former incentive. In addition, state and local entities are stepping up to offer incentives. Check with the nonprofit advocacy organization Plug In America for the latest available where you live. These incentives make EVs more affordable despite their high market prices.
4. Financing and Leasing
Buyers must also account for the differences in financing and leasing. EV technology is rapidly evolving, so a model could become obsolete in a few years. Some car shoppers lease to gain flexibility as technology improves. Depreciation is more complicated to predict because EV resale values fluctuate. New models, manufacturer price cuts and policy changes affect pricing.
5. Dealership Scarcity
Experts typically recommend visiting multiple dealerships when car shopping. This strategy can be more challenging due to the scarce supply, so you should research the inventory before heading to the lot. Automakers prioritize high-demand models, so the one you want might be unavailable. Customers may have to request the car to be brought to the dealership, which limits their leverage.
Adjusting to Owning an EV
Buying an EV also requires considering what it’s like to own one. Your focus shifts from fueling up at a local gas station to ensuring the battery is charged before you leave home. Drivers must consider their EV’s range before planning their weekly drives. While range is improving, it’s still behind gas-powered cars. Researchers say the median EV can travel 283 miles on one charge, although that number continues to move up.
Maintenance is another distinction, as EVs eliminate the need for oil changes. The electric powertrain is simpler, with fewer moving parts, so the risk of failure is lower. Drivers shift their focus to battery maintenance because it’s the core component. Manufacturers will periodically send software updates to ensure range and battery health.
Consumers Shift to EV Buying
The buying experience is similar whether you purchase an EV or a traditional car. However, the key differences are worth remembering before you step onto the dealership lot. While electric vehicles are typically more expensive, their total cost of ownership can be cheaper, particularly when you charge at home.
Buyers should consider key factors like charging infrastructure and maintenance differences when they’re deciding whether to select an EV.
