Chevy, Chevy Bolt, Model S, Tesla Motors

Chevy Bolt Or Tesla Model S, Which Is The Best EV For A Road Trip?

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Everyone loves a road trip: Driving through a region, discovering its magic, one mile at a time, while being as free as a bird to stop and sleep wherever you want to. It’s no wonder that road trips are an American symbol: They’re linked to a natural sense of freedom and exploration of vast landscapes that are so iconic of the US. But when it comes to road trips, it’s always the old Mustang or the long Cadillac that get in the picture of the perfect trip. Have you ever considered an electric car instead? We’re comparing the Tesla Model S and the Chevy Bolt to find out the best car for the exercise!

Chevy Bolt EV

The essentials on the road

Even though an electric car has a different fuelling system, it doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t pack like for a standard road trip, namely a box of tools to be able to change a flat tyre and cables to revive the battery. Admittedly, there’s no need to worry in case you’ve forgotten a tool or you find yourself unable to move the car. The tow truck service is equally available to fuel-powered and electric vehicles! But, you’ll enjoy the road trip more if you don’t need it!

Planning ahead

If it’s your first long drive with an EV, make sure to check a map of charging stations in the area before you leave. These are more difficult to find than fuel stations!

Tesla Model S: Supercharged in 30min

The Tesla Model S has some serious bragging rights, as with any electric car that allows you to invest in the future. But what is really exciting about this model is that you can in only 30 minutes get the car charged to complete a 170-mile-long journey, assuming you are using a Tesla Supercharger charging station. Remember the EV charging map? That’s why you need it! Additionally, the Tesla S is a fast car that can even beat the Ferrari 458 in a race.

Chevy Bolt: 313 miles on a charge

In comparison, the Chevy Bolt offers an impressive driving range on one charge: Up to 238 miles, although drivers claim to have managed 313 miles on a single charge. Unfortunately the Chevy Bolt can’t use the Tesla Supercharger, but you can use DC fast-charging stations to deliver 90 miles in the first 30 min. If you’re stopping in a hotel, it will take a 240-volt Level 2 charging station 9 hours to fill a discharged battery pack.

The verdict

According to EPA estimates, the 259 miles range of the Tesla Model S beats the Chevy Bolt, especially if you take into account the time of charge. However, recent tests by Consumer Reports show otherwise: The Chevy Bolt surpasses expectations with a 235 miles range, vs the Tesla that only hits 250 miles. But charging time and comfort are in favor of the Tesla’s vehicle.

In conclusion, a long-distance road trip is better planned with a Tesla Model S, as you’ll be making the most of its supercharging abilities and comfy seats. However, if you’re driving only a few hundred miles, the Chevy Bolt is a great alternative that exceeds range expectations, as long as you remember to use DC fast-charging stations!

Harley-Davidson

What You Need to Know About Buying a Harley-Davidson

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The Harley-Davidson is one of the most famous and desired motorcycles on the planet right now. It’s been the case for a very long time, so it’s no surprise so many people still yearn to become owners of these incredible machines. So, if you’re currently thinking about starting the buying process, you need to inform yourself. That’s what we’re here to help you with. Here’s everything you need to know about buying a Harley-Davidson for yourself.

Understand the Different Submodels

The first thing to know is that there are so many different submodels of Harley-Davidsons, and you need to understand them all before you make your pick. If you’re looking for a fast and fun Harley-Davidson, you will probably need to seek out one of their Sportsters. If you want a more durable cruising-style ride, the Dyna submodel is for you. There are also Touring, V-Rod and Softail submodels, among others. Learn about them all before deciding which is right for you.

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Delve Into the Specifications

There are so many nitty gritty specifications that you’re going to have to delve into if you’re serious about buying a Harley-Davidson and want to do it in the right kind of way. The big twin engines will have to be understood, as will the saddlebags, anti-lock brakes and the crash bars.

Find the Market Value and Don’t Be Put Off By High Asking Prices

The market value will depend on which model you’re interested in buying. There are so many of them out there, and don’t be put off if you see one listed for a high price. A high priced listing on an auction website means nothing unless someone actually pays the amount for it. Pay attention to the sale price, not the seller’s desired price. Only one of them matters.

Get to Know the Bike’s History

Knowing the bike’s history and what it’s been through in the past is essential. Many people are attracted to 90s Harleys. They have an incredible design, and they were built to last. But when you’re buying anything that’s that old, you need to know what its history is. If it’s had a run in with a Craig Swapp & Associates motorcycle lawyer or been involved in other accidents, you should be aware of that. It could inform your eventual decision.

Take it For a Test Ride and Check the Wiring

It’s vital for you to take the Harley you’re interested in buying for a test ride. Unless you want to be surprised by a humming coming from the engine later on when you’ve already handed over your money, you definitely need to do this. These bikes ride smooth, so any hint that it’s not smooth should set off some alarm bells in your mind. Don’t buy if you have concerns like these.

Buying a Harley is a big process for you to go through, and it’s a lot of money to spend. Make sure you make use of the advice above to avoid making a mistake or getting ripped off.

-Other EVs-

Promises, Promises: Electric Pledges From Car Producers

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Are you thinking about making the change and getting an electric car? We’re not talking about a hybrid here. No, we’re referring to something quite different, a fully electric car that has no need or use for a petrol engine. Don’t let anyone fool you, these type of cars are still quite rare on the market. However, there is a lot of hope for the future. Many of the biggest car manufacturers are taking huge strides in their commitment to electric cars, and we’re not just talking about hybrids.

It’s interesting to explore the pledges and promises made by car producers. That way, we can analyse how realistic they are and whether we think the company will live up to them. As well as this, it gives us a brilliant look at the future of the auto world and, as we’re about to discover, the future is electric.

Let’s start by thinking about Volvo. The company is taking great strides towards a future based on the electric car.

Volvo Make History

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It’s true, Volvo is the first ever company to commit completely to the idea of electric vehicles. In 2019, every vehicle that Volvo produces will have an electric motor. What does this mean? Well, if you want a traditional type of powered car, you’re going to need to get one second hand, and you can read online here the type of Volvos that you might be buying. However, this also suggests that the car producer realizes how important electric powered cars are going to be. It’s also worth pointing out that the point of making this reality isn’t too far away. It’s amazing to think that in just two years, Volvo will be the first car producer to commit completely to electric. And they will be the first as currently, they are the only company to make this type of commitment.

It is, for many, a new chapter in the history of vehicles and the car industry. Volvo has suggested that this move is to benefit the current demand for electric cars and they are certainly right about that. There are many people who are eager to get their hands on an electric car. However, it’s important to understand that the car in question must fit into their budget and be something that they can rely on. Right now, it’s an either or. Either you have an expensive electric car that performs well. Or, you have a car with a low range that is cheap enough anyone can afford it. The answer? Well, Volvo might provide it with their aim to bring five fully electric cars between 2019 and 2021. The key detail here is that each of these cars is going to fit into different categories and as such, there will be high-performance electric cars that everyone can afford.

We’ll find out in a couple of years whether or not Volvos plans come to fruition. It’s worth pointing out that this isn’t the only major plan from the business in the pipeline. The company is also keen to reduce the number of injuries and fatalities in a Volvo car down to zero by 2025.

Volkswagen’s Electrifying Goal

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Another producer has their own plans for electric cars and would you believe, it’s connected to self-driving vehicles. The company has announced a Together-Strategy 2025. This is simply a plan to commit to both self-driving vehicles and electric vehicles at the same time.

Audi, one of the companies that form the Volkswagen group are seriously aggressive with their stance on self-driving cars (in a good way). In fact, Audi has claimed that by 2020, 30 percent of the cars they produce will be electric. It’s not quite the commitment to the idea Volvo are trying to make, but it’s not a bad start. And, unlike Volvo, they seem to have some concrete plans.

For instance, Audi aims to release something called the I.D in 2020. We don’t know much about this car aside from the fact that it’s fully electric and a nifty little speedster. It won’t be the first electric sports car to grace the market, but if Audi is involved, it could just be one of the best. If you’re interested in autonomous tech, this speedster will supposedly work using lasers on the roof. It all sounds very sci-fi, and we can’t find a way to see how it comes together.

It’s worth pointing out that unlike Volvo this company is in dire need of repairing it’s damaged reputation. After all, it wasn’t too long ago that their supposed ‘clean diesel’ tech wasn’t quite as clean as everyone had hoped.

Ford Thinking SUV

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It’s no surprise that Ford’s pledge for electric is all about the SUV. Ford are well known as the producer of family-friendly vehicles, and there’s nothing more family-friendly than a good old SUV. That’s probably why they have aimed to produce an EV SUV by 2020. But that’s not the big news. The big news is that this beauty will have a range of three hundred miles. That’s pretty good and certainly rivals some of the offerings from Tesla. Though, if we’re fair, we would say Tesla will probably have leapt over that type of range by 2020. The pioneers of auto technology are unlikely to be taken over by Ford, but one can’t help but admire their efforts here.

Daimler

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People who aren’t up to speed on the car industry may not recognize that name. That’s why it’s worth noting that this is the producer working behind the scenes of the Mercedes brand. Mercedes, of course, are known for selling high class, luxurious vehicles and those who can afford them will be pleased to hear that by 2022 the company expects to have 10 EVs on the market. This means they might have more than a company that plans to go all in for electric in the next couple of years.

As we can see then, car producers are taking bold steps to commit to electric cars, and it will be fascinating to see what type of progress they make on keeping these pledges over the next few years.

 

-Other EVs-

Why An EV Makes The Perfect First Car For Your Teen

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https://www.pexels.com/photo/action-adult-blur-car-620335/

When you teen first starts learning to drive, it can really freak you out. Not only does it feel really strange to see your baby behind the wheel and have to realize that they’re growing up and no longer your baby, you worry about them too. Because road traffic accidents are always an issue, and you never want your baby to be in harm’s way. So, one thing that you can do as a parent, is make sure that you choose the best car possible for your teen. Now, we all know that there are tons of reasons to go electric with your car choice, but it’s also a great choice to consider for your teen too. Still need convincing? Then let’s consider the benefits.

Safety

Up first, we have the safety factors – which are often the most important. We’ve all seen the road traffic accident and distracted driving statistics, and although you can tell your teen until they’re blue in the face that they have to be responsible, you need to have backup too. And that often comes in the form of incredible safety features. With EVs, you know that they come with incredible tech, like the Chevrolet Spark EV with its stability and traction control and ten airbags too. When you know you’re buying safe, you know you’re making a good move.

Speed

Then there’s also the issue of speed. Because as much as you will tell your teen (especially boys) not to drive fast, they still might be tempted. But with an EV, we know that they’re known for being slower than fuel-based cars. They tend to take awhile longer to get up to speed, some models at least. So when you’re buying electric, you know that you’re not putting them in something that could potentially be a death-wish.

Technology

At the same time as offering incredible safety tech, EVs can also come with some great in-car tech too. This means you can really sell some models to your kid, and they’ll prefer them over non-EVs. From state of the are navigation to great entertainment options, you’ll be happy that they have everything they need, and they’ll be in love with their new gadgets.

Running Costs

Then you’ve also got the running costs to think about. Because keeping a car on the road can be expensive for a teen. But when it comes to running an EV vs. running a fuel car, you can save money. So whether you’re going to be paying the running and maintenance costs for them, or they’re paying for themselves, you will find that many EVs are great cheap choices.

Purchase Cost

And then, of course, you also have the purchase cost to consider too. Whether you’re leasing or buying, you will find that EVs are affordable options to purchase outright, with many around the $25,000 mark and even costing under $200 a month to lease, you will find that it’s an affordable first car choice for your teen.

Model S, Tesla Motors

Why You Absolutely Need the Tesla Model S

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Image via Wikimedia Commons

There are many benefits to getting an electric car, ranging from the simple cool-factor of driving in the vehicle of the future, to cutting down dramatically on fuel costs, and reducing your carbon footprint.

But for all those benefits which apply to electric cars across the board, there are certain key reasons why you might want to take the plunge and invest in a Tesla Model S.

Here are a few of those reasons.

Bragging rights

There’s no electric car quite as universally well known, and with quite the mythic aura surrounding it, as the Tesla. By owning a Tesla Model S you get the bragging rights that come with investing in Elon Musk’s vision for the future.

You also get to enjoy the instant recognition, interest, and curiosity of those you bring it up with in conversation. There’s a certain sense of being on the cutting edge with comes with the territory of driving a Tesla, and with that comes the bragging rights.

Of course, it doesn’t hurt that it’s a pretty car, available in a range of ceramic paint coatings.

Access to the world’s fastest charging stations

One of the key concerns among many new electric car buyers is the fear that they might find themselves running out of juice at a bad time, and either being stranded in the middle of nowhere, or having to wait for hours at a charging station before getting back on the road.

Fortunately for the Tesla Model S owner, they have the privilege of using the renowned Tesla Supercharger charging stations.

Not only are Tesla Superchargers the world’s fastest charging stations — boasting the ability to get your car ready for 170 miles of travel within as little as 30 minutes — but they are also positioned in convenient locations such as near shopping complexes or service stops.

Just be sure to check your map in advance to see where they are, as there are by no means an unlimited number of them around.

100% first year allowance

With a Tesla Model S, you’re able to claim a 100% year-one deduction on the car, assuming you use it as a company car.

For the self-employed, or entrepreneurs out there, this can be a great incentive for finally making the plunge and picking up one of these vaunted vehicles.

Feeding the need for speed

There are no two ways about it, the Tesla Model S is simply fast, with top speeds of 139.9-155.3mph. The internet abounds with videos of the Tesla Model S taking on cars such as the Ferrari 458 in head-to-head races, and coming out on top.

If you’ve been put off buying an electric car because you heard they were slow and clunky, you’re a few generations behind the curve. The Tesla Model S is more than able to put your reservations to bed.

Saving the environment

This is a predictable point to make about electric cars in general, but it’s still valid and worth making. In a time of ecological crisis, being a part of the solution rather than the problem is a good feeling.

What’s more, by purchasing a Tesla, you’re directly contributing to Elon Musk’s wider efforts to introduce sustainable, ecologically friendly transport, in all its various forms.

Nissan Leaf

Nissan Leaf: A Revolution In Car Design?

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The Japanese carmaker Nissan has been at the forefront of the industry for many years. Their latest Leaf model has become exceptionally popular in recent times, and this article will take a look at just some of the reasons for that. With a bit of luck, you’ll gain a better understanding of the car and its benefits by the time you leave this page.

An entirely electric car

The best thing about the Nissan Leaf for most people is that it’s an entirely electric vehicle. That means you will never have to stop at the gas station to fill your tank again! Of course, it might present some issues when traveling in areas that lack charging points.

Zero emissions

As the Leaf is all-electric, that means drivers don’t make an adverse impact on the environment when they spend time behind the wheel. Indeed, with zero emissions, you can travel as much as you like without every stressing about your impact on the planet.

Quick off the mark

The electric motors used on the Nissan Leaf provide rapid acceleration. So, don’t think you’re not going to drive fast just because it’s an electric car. The Leaf can compete with most other vehicles on the road.

Anyone who wants to get hold of the Nissan Leaf this year will have to decide between buying the model outright or leasing it from a private supplier. The infographic published under this paragraph will assist you in making the right decision. Take a look at it now to ensure you leave no stone unturned.


Infographic by auto.loan