EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, which reduces harmful gases like carbon dioxide that contribute to global warming. They also emit fewer sooty particulates that contribute to poor air quality in our towns and cities, especially when vehicles are in stop/start traffic. The environmental benefits of EVs are even more significant in rural areas, where many Americans live and drive more miles than urban residents.

Electrification of transportation is an important way to address climate change, and there are many ways you can help make it happen. If you’re interested in purchasing or leasing an EV, CR’s EV Incentives Search tool allows you to sort available rebate savings by zip code. You can also learn about local and state incentives in our EV incentive guide.

Electric cars Search for electric vehicles are a convenient and cost-effective alternative to traditional gasoline vehicles. They don’t need regular oil changes, and they require significantly less maintenance. And, since EVs don’t use diesel or petrol, they don’t produce exhaust fumes that can be dangerous for people with respiratory problems.

Many people find that driving an EV is a fun, more relaxed experience than traditional vehicles. They’re quieter, and their acceleration is smooth and linear. They’re also easier to maneuver and have more space in the trunk for storage. And, because EVs don’t have gears, there are fewer mechanical components to break down.

Electricity to power a car’s battery costs about half as much as it does to fuel a gasoline-powered vehicle for the same distance. Drivers can charge their EV overnight at home and, thanks to a growing network of public charging stations, can usually find one when they’re traveling. Some EVs can use fast chargers to get up to 200 miles of range in about 30 minutes.

There are also a number of other benefits to owning an electric vehicle, including special perks and access to free or reduced-price parking spaces and highway lanes. In addition, a growing number of utilities and automakers are offering incentives to help consumers afford the upfront purchase price of an EV or install a home charging station.

If you’re ready to explore the options, Xcel Energy’s EV Shopper tool is an excellent resource for Coloradans (regardless of your utility provider). The tool can help you narrow down the available models and price ranges based on your preferences, as well as calculate the potential savings with a plug-in rebate or tax credit. You can also see how the different EV models stack up against a gas-powered vehicle of similar price and features, so you can compare apples to apples. If you’re a Xcel Energy customer, you can also sign up for the EV Incentives Program to receive automatic notification of the latest offers and updates.