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Carl & Tory

2012 Nissan Leaf & 2018 Tesla Model 3

Jaffrey, NH

We like the “Smooth response and, because we have a solar panel array, being in charge of our fuel source.”

What’s your #1 tip or piece of advice for new or prospective EV owners?

Choose the right car for you.

Read on to learn about Carl & Tory’s EV story – including buying, driving, owning, & charging his EV!

buying an ev

What main factors & considerations went into your decision to buy an EV?

An option to burning fossil fuels

What factors sold you on buying an EV? Why did you pick the specific make & model of EV that you did?

Fuel economy and environmental responsibility. The 2012 Leaf was the only EV available with enough range to satisfy our needs. The 2018 Tesla choice was based on all wheel drive and 300 mile range.

driving & owning an ev

What is your favorite aspect of the EV driving experience?

Smooth response and, because we have a solar panel array, being in charge of our fuel source.

In a few sentences, summarize your favorite EV memory or anecdote.

Charging up while watching a movie.

What surprised you about owning an EV?

The lack of infrastructure. The joy of driving by gas stations and realizing we didn’t need them.

What is the main downside or challenge of driving or owning an EV compared to an ICE vehicle? What tricks have you developed to adapt to that challenge?

Again the lack of infrastructure. Planning trips around available charging stations.

Charging an EV

Where do you charge your EV? Do you have an at-home charger?

Since Covid-19 we charge, almost completely, at home. We are off grid and use a PV array and in home batteries (with a backup generator) for all our power needs. We had our electrician install a double 220v outlet in our garage so we can charge both cars when possible. It was a quick and easy install and has worked flawlessly.

What are a few of your favorite charging resources you use?

The Tesla app allows us to start and stop charging remotely, which we do often due to the irregularity of sunshine. We also enjoy PlugShare when searching for charge stations. Also A Better Route Planner is very thorough for planning trips.
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