EV 101: Your Guide to Electric Vehicles

EV 101: Your Guide to Electric Vehicles

Everywhere you turn, there’s a new electric vehicle (EV) on the road, or at least one being advertised on TV. As production ramps up, charging infrastructure expands and EVs become more affordable, it’s time to get acquainted with electric vehicles.

EV Batteries

Fully electric vehicles use only batteries to power the vehicle. Starting with 2024 models, all GM electric vehicles will use the Ultium Platform. One distinct feature of EV batteries is their ability to use regenerative braking. Not only can this feature lead to a smoother drive, but it can also lengthen your EV’s 300-plus miles of range and the longevity of your brakes. Plus, SUVs like the Equinox EV, Blazer EV and Cadillac LYRIQ come with an eight-year/100,000-mile limited warranty covering the battery, so you can be confident in your decision to go electric.

EV Charging Stations

EVs allow you to level up your multitasking. Charge your vehicle while you’re at work for the day, at home during the night or even while you’re grocery shopping. Just like plugging in your smartphone, charging an EV is simple. There are several charger types to choose from, including:

• Level 1 EV chargers plug into typical North American three-prong (120-volt) electrical outlets. This is the slowest way to charge your vehicle.
• Level 2 EV chargers plug into four-prong (240-volt) electrical outlets, like you might see on a home dryer. Many public charging stations are Level 2.
• Level 3 EV chargers are reserved for public charging stations and will charge the vehicle quickly. For example, 10 minutes of charging can add up to 77 miles of range on a 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ¹ or 100 miles to a 2024 GMC Sierra EV.² You’ll likely find these DC fast-charging stations near busy expressways and interstate highways.
• At-home bidirectional charging systems available on select EVs allow you to send electricity from your home to vehicle — and vehicle to home. GM Energy’s website has more product and installation information about this innovative technology.

EV Trip Planning

You can use your vehicle’s app to plan your route ahead of an EV road trip. If you’re traveling in a Chevrolet Equinox EV, you can navigate to Energy Assist in the myChevrolet Mobile App to view your charge status, current range and charging settings. Enter a destination and it will map out your route, including any charging stops you’ll need to take along the way. It will also tell you the duration of the trip, taking into consideration your specific vehicle’s charge, the weather and any traffic along the route.

EV Maintenance

Say goodbye to oil changes. With fewer moving parts, EVs require fewer fluids and filters than a gas vehicle. Your local GM dealership is most knowledgeable about GM EVs and can support you with maintenance needs like checking the cooling system, replacing brake fluid and pads, and rotating the tires. As long as you replace the wiper fluid and run it through the car wash, you'll keep your EV looking good and running like new.

EV Benefits

Aside from environmental benefits of zero tailpipe emissions, EVs can also have a positive impact on your wallet. Additional perks to owning an EV might include special energy pricing at off-peak hours, access to high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes and potential tax advantages, depending on your state and local regulations. Based on the electricity rates and fuel prices in your area, you could spend significantly less in charging your electric vehicle compared to fueling a gas vehicle.

Ready to get in an electric vehicle? Apply to prequalify for financing, then schedule an appointment with your local dealership and ask these questions during your test drive.

By Nicole Mayer, GM Financial

Nicole Mayer is a whisk-taker with a fondness for desserts. From baking to organizing, she’s motivated by trying new things and sharing her knowledge. When she’s not in the kitchen rocking out to ‘80s music, you’ll find her serving up aces on the tennis court.