First-Time EV Buyer's Guide | BMW | Tips & Tricks

 

Electric vehicles are becoming more prevalent on the Corona roads, leading many drivers to consider making the switch. But, if you’ve never considered what to look for in an electric car, learning all the ins and outs of EVs can feel daunting. BMW of Murrieta is here to help with our First-Time EV Buyer’s Guide, a collection of tips and tricks to ensure electric is the right choice for you! Learn more about how to choose an electric car to buy and then browse BMW of Murrieta’s inventory of BMW electric vehicles to find your next efficient sedan or SUV. 

 

 

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Electric Car Basics | California

Before learning about what to look for in an electric car, it’s important to understand how electric vehicles work. Instead of a combustion engine under the hood that uses fuel to power your car on the Riverside roads, electric vehicles operate using a large battery and one or more electric motors. This means that, instead of fueling up at your local gas station, you’ll need to plug in your EV at a charging station to recharge the battery, much like you would plug in a phone or tablet. The amount of charge your battery has determines how many miles of range your EV is capable of, so keeping on top of charging is an essential aspect of EV ownership.

What to Look For in an Electric Car

Since electric vehicles require charging instead of fuel, the type of EV you choose will depend on several factors. Ask yourself these questions while searching for an EV:

• What is the Range of the Vehicle? Range is an integral part of any EV purchase. Consider how many miles you drive a day. Any EV you consider should be able to easily manage your day-to-day mileage. 

• What is the Local Charging Infrastructure Like? While electric car charging infrastructure continues to grow, there are still fewer charging stations in Ontario than gas stations. Locate all the EV charging stations near you so you have a plan for charging on the go, and consider having a charging station installed in your home for consistent, reliable charging. 

• What Costs Will Change with Electric Ownership? There are some budgeting changes to make when buying an EV. For one, installing an EV charger at home will be an extra upfront cost, and the power used to charge your battery will show up on your electricity bill. That said, you’ll also eliminate the need to buy fuel, and EV maintenance costs are lower than those of a traditional gas-powered vehicle.

• Are There Local or Government EV Incentives You Qualify For? Some local and state governments offer tax incentives or rebates on electric vehicles that meet certain criteria. Talk to our finance department to see what incentives you could qualify for!

How to Choose an Electric Car to Buy

Once you’ve determined an electric car is right for you, it’s time to learn how to choose an electric car to buy! Much like any other car purchase, you’ll want to: 

• Set a Budget: A general rule of thumb is that your car expenses (such as the monthly payment or routine maintenance) should not exceed 10% of your monthly income. 

• Find a Model That Suits Your Lifestyle: Are you looking for a sleek, sporty sedan like the BMW i4? Or do you need the flexibility and capability of an SUV like the BMW iX? Think about how you plan to drive daily and what functions you’ll need from your new EV.

• Take One for a Test Drive: Experience the thrill of an electric vehicle in person! Feel how the EV handles, learn about where and how it can be charged, and inspect the warranty coverage and optional features.

Find Your Next Electric Car at BMW of Murrieta!

Now that you’ve read our First-Time EV Buyer’s Guide, you’re ready to start your EV search at BMW of Murrieta! If you have any questions or would like to set up a test drive in Murrieta, contact us online or at 833-613-1189. Our team will be happy to help you on the path to the electric future!

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