Choosing Our Electric Car

My approach was straightforward: if we were going electric, it had to be done right. I focused on mid-range or higher family-sized cars with long ranges, given our need for practicality. This was my first experience buying a brand-new car, as I had always opted for used vehicles before.

After considerable research, we narrowed our options down to two contenders: the Mercedes EQB and the Audi E-Tron. Despite my loyalty to Mercedes, the service experience left much to be desired, prompting me to reconsider. In contrast, Audi provided exemplary service, and we were eager to test drive the E-Tron, although its price and range were concerning.

While searching for our ideal vehicle, I encountered the Kia EV6. Initially skeptical due to preconceived notions about the brand, I was impressed by its design and performance. My family echoed my sentiments, leading us to dig deeper into the EV6’s accolades, including its 2022 Car of the Year award.

Despite its popularity and inflated prices, we managed to secure a test drive of the EV6, which we found thrilling. We placed a deposit on a top-tier model, complete with all the bells and whistles, and prepared for a long wait. However, fate intervened, and we acquired a lower-spec EV6 sooner than expected, followed by our ordered model months later.

Home Charging Solutions

The initial challenge was establishing a home charging system. As a temporary solution, I used a trickle charger connected to a standard outlet, allowing us to alternate between vehicles. Though slow, this method proved manageable, especially as we adapted to our new routine of swapping cars as needed.

I later optimized our charging setup by switching to a cheaper overnight electricity tariff and having an electrician install a proper charging unit. However, complications arose due to outdated wiring in our home, necessitating intervention from the power supplier to upgrade our system. The delay resulted in a semi-permanent workaround that continued to serve us well over a year later.

Our charging habits evolved to accommodate our driving patterns, allowing us to maintain battery levels efficiently. The EV6s consistently delivered more range than advertised, a pleasant surprise that has contributed to our overall satisfaction.

Daily Driving Experience

Driving the EV6 for everyday errands and local trips is remarkably similar to using a gasoline vehicle, albeit with the benefits of quiet operation and instant torque. The various driving modes, particularly Eco and Sport, enhance the experience, though Eco mode usually suffices for our needs.

One notable adjustment was the absence of frequent trips to gas stations. We saved money on coffee and snacks previously purchased during these stops, contributing to significant annual savings.

Long-Distance Travel and Charging

Challenges arose during longer journeys, particularly when charging infrastructure was inconsistent. During one trip, we faced potential range anxiety after encountering several malfunctioning chargers. However, we managed to locate a functional supercharger just in time, albeit with some frustration navigating the necessary apps for activation.

Thankfully, recent improvements in charging infrastructure have alleviated many concerns. The emergence of dedicated supercharging stations and user-friendly payment options means we now approach long trips with greater confidence.

Financial Benefits of Going Electric

Transitioning to electric vehicles can yield substantial savings, but it requires a thoughtful approach. We estimated over £2,000 in fuel savings during our first year, alongside additional savings from no road tax, reduced servicing costs, and other incidental expenses.

As electric vehicle incentives are set to change, now is the opportune time for potential buyers to capitalize on these benefits. Our combined savings over three years could reach around £30,000, making the investment in electric vehicles worthwhile.

Conclusion

For those considering an electric vehicle, many concerns are unwarranted, especially when buying new. The Kia EV6 has proven to be a well-designed, reliable car with no signs of degradation after extensive use.

While public charging still presents some challenges, home charging remains the most economical option. Ultimately, the decision to go electric comes down to personal preference and budget. Despite the initial costs, the long-term benefits and savings are undeniable.

I proudly embrace my identity as a Kia driver, enjoying the experience of electric vehicle ownership.

If you’re in the UK, check out my top-of-the-line black Kia EV6 GT-Line S model available for hire through Truro, a great way to explore the car before committing to a purchase!