TECHNOLOGY
SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORTATION Driving Electric Is Easier than You May Think A growing number of drivers have already switched to electric, and many will soon follow suit. Electric vehicles (EVs) have become a serious contender for car buyers nationwide. From convenience and fun to lower fuel and maintenance costs and environmental benefits, EVs have a lot to offer. Today’s models: •
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Cost about half as much to operate as gasoline vehicles. The average price to charge an EV is roughly $1.20 per gallon. EVs also cost less to maintain. EV brakes typically last longer, and oil changes aren’t needed. Plus, drivers may be able to take advantage of a federal tax credit for buying a new EV. Help cut greenhouse gas emissions. All-electric vehicles have zero tailpipe emissions. If you charge your EV using MGE’s public charging network, you fuel up with 100 percent clean energy. You also can sign up for MGE’s Green Power Tomorrow program to fuel your EV with clean electricity at home. Can travel far on a full charge. The average Wisconsin driver travels 30 miles a day, so even the lowest-range EV can take you where you want to go. Improved EV battery
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technology has enabled some models to travel 300-plus miles on a full charge, and we expect even longer travel distances in the near future. •
Go fast. When driving an EV, you can expect instant torque. All of the motor’s power is available to the driver faster than with a gasoline engine. For example, Ford says its Mach-E GT Performance can hit 60 miles per hour in 3.5 seconds.
Charge@Home Supporting the evolving EV market is part of MGE’s commitment to new technology and innovative products and services for customers. Our Charge@Home program makes it easy for MGE customers who drive EVs to conveniently charge at home, which is where 80 percent of charging occurs. That means no more trips to the gas station. It’s easy to get started. MGE coordinates the installation of Level 2 (L2) 240-volt charging stations at customers’ homes for about $20 a month plus the cost of electricity, with no upfront costs. If anything goes wrong, MGE will repair or replace the station. Other benefits include:
