Have you ever noticed car-charging stations placed in areas such as grocery store parking lots and wondered why they were there? This is because of the new electric vehicles being placed in the market. Electric vehicles have many pros, but also some cons.

Electric vehicles became well-known in December 2012. Since then, more and more people are turning to them instead of gas-powered vehicles. Some say electric cars are better for the environment than gas-powered ones. The charging stations are provided by electric utility companies or paid for by the company that places them in their parking lot.

Electric cars are quicker and much more quiet than regular gas-powered cars. As soon as you set your foot on the accelerator, the power is delivered immediately to the wheels. There are no clunky noises while accelerating and braking. It is all one smooth ride, which is a large reason why most people enjoy these cars.

How would you like to never have to go to a gas station again? Having an electric car means no more gas stations and no more hefty prices for you. All you have to do is plug your car in at night and fully charge it. According to Plugincars.com, “The cost to fuel an [electric vehicle] is approximately one-third to one-quarter the cost of gasoline (on a cost-per-mile basis). And because electric cars don’t have exhaust systems and don’t need oil changes, maintenance costs are reduced.”

According to Seth Moffitt, senior, “I would absolutely love having an electric car. I think it would be much cheaper and give me more time. You don’t have to go to any gas stations; just plug it into the wall and you’re set.”

However, there are some cons that come along with owning these cars. There is very little range on the car. With a gas-powered vehicle, you get about 250 miles, but with these vehicles, you only get about 80-100 miles before your battery runs out.

According to Caroline Carlson, sophomore, “With being a new driver, I personally wouldn’t like an electric car. I would worry about running out of battery while on the road, and there really isn’t much of a choice when choosing the type of car. They are all very small and compacted.”

As you can see, owning an electric car has its advantages and disadvantages. If you are thinking about buying a new car, look at all of the pros and cons of both types of cars before purchasing. If you are someone who loves to go green, this is the car for you.