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Peter H.
2020 Chevy Bolt
Keene, NH
“I will never have to buy gas again…The 250 mile range on a full charge is ample for most of my driving needs.”
What’s your #1 tip or piece of advice for new or prospective EV owners?
Don’t overanalyze. Dive right in and enjoy the feeling of being fossil-fuel-free.
Read on to learn about Peter’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?
I bought my first Toyota Prius hybrid in 2001, progressed to a Chevy Volt (plug-in hybrid) in 2012 and then graduated to the fully electric Chevy Bolt this winter. I have taken advantage of price incentives along the way and also the low cost of leasing. By making a small down-payment, I was able to keep the monthly payments on the lease reasonable.
What factors sold you on buying an EV? Why did you pick the specific make & model of EV that you did?
I wanted an American-made vehicle and Chevy seemed the right choice. I have a good relationship with the dealer and service has never been an issue.
driving & owning an ev
What is your favorite aspect of the EV driving experience?
I will never have to buy gas again (although I will have to get used to finding recharging stations on a long trip). The 250 mile range on a full charge is ample for most of my driving needs.
In a few sentences, summarize your favorite EV memory or anecdote.
My daughter has had a Nissan Leaf EV for several years so I have used her experience as a Guiney pig. With the longer range of the Bolt, I decided it was time to take the plunge.
What surprised you about owning an EV?
It hasn’t been much of a change from me going from a Volt to a Bolt. The acceleration is great and even with a hatchback, there seems to be enough room for my needs.
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?
I have to get a 230 volt outlet in my garage for faster charging. With Covid 19, I haven’t taken any long trips yet but will soon and I look forward to learning how to charge on the run.
Charging an EV
Where do you charge your EV? Do you have an at-home charger?
I still need to upgrade to a 230 v charger at home but so far it hasn’t been an inconvenience. I am going to work with the city to make sure the standards for home chargers are on the city website and available to all.
What are a few of your favorite charging resources you use?
I have just started to use the PlugShare app on my iPhone. No experience yet.