How the decision for the electric car can be made

Many people face the challenge of choosing a new car when the old one has grown old. In doing so, there are often clear ideas about the size and price of the vehicle. However, the decision between a model with a gasoline tank or an electric car with a battery is difficult.

This is the situation for numerous car buyers in the country, says automotive economist Stefan Bratzel. Because the more electric cars are discussed and the larger the range becomes, the more they are considered by many, says the professor at the University of Applied Sciences in Bergisch Gladbach:

“But the longer they think about it, the bigger the question marks become.”

When asking experts for advice and decision-making help, three critical areas quickly emerge, aside from personal preferences for brands, design, or body styles, which are crucial for the pros and cons.

“With a few simple questions, anyone can decide if they are fit for the future,” says Bratzel.

Where can I charge?

First and foremost is the power supply, says Stefan Moeller:

“Every potential e-car buyer must ask themselves where they can regularly charge their vehicle.”

The Leipzig resident is an e-fluencer with his own YouTube channel, has been promoting electric cars for years and through his company, mediates and rents vehicles from various manufacturers.

Anyone who can install a wallbox at home and ideally operate it with their own solar power has already overcome the first hurdle and is almost predestined for the switch, according to Stefan Bratzel.

“Just like with a charging option at the workplace.”

On the other hand, if you can't charge at home or at work, you might start to ponder, the expert admits. Then you have to ask where charging stops can be integrated into the daily or weekly routine: However, one should not look for the charging station on the roadside, which is often quite far away and can be occupied, warns Moeller. 

“Instead, it's better to see if there are already large fast-charging hubs on my daily routes.” The local supermarket, gym, or favorite restaurant could then become an alternative. “And also pay attention to the price,” says Moeller, referring to the first major providers offering subscription rates of 39 cents/kWh for fast charging.

How far do I have to drive?

According to all the experts interviewed, battery capacity and with it the range play a less significant role than our psyche would have us believe.

“Of course, commercial travelers with many thousands of kilometers of daily mileage have a harder time than short-distance commuters or home workers who only drive for shopping or to kindergarten,” says Stefan Bratzel.

But statistically, even electric cars with a range of less than 250 kilometers are sufficient for a whole week. After all, according to ADAC, the average daily mileage of Germans is just 40 kilometers.

Even a Dacia Spring would only need to be plugged in after five days. For longer distances, fast-charging stations at motorway service areas are available, which allow for sufficient charging within 20 to 30 minutes, the club further informs online: Those who want an electric car that can cover 400 to 500 kilometers or more without a long stop will also find an adequate offer.

“And the choice shouldn't be dictated by the two or three really long trips a year, like going on vacation,” says Bratzel.

How much car and how much battery can I afford?

Although the Dacia Spring, at 16,900 euros, is the cheapest electric car in the country, more than 11,000 euros cheaper than a normal VW Golf, no one seriously claims that electric cars are cheaper than combustion engines.

"You still have to dig deeper into your pocket for comparable electric cars," admits university professor Bratzel. "However, the prices are increasingly converging. And in 2025, electric cars will experience another price drop due to the growing CO2 pressure on manufacturers," the expert is convinced.

Moreover, one should not only look at the list prices, Moeller explains, but also check the discounts and daily dealer offers.

"Furthermore, electric cars are often leased, and the monthly rates can vary double among different models with the same list price."

And it's not just the purchase that should be considered in financial planning. There are also differences in maintenance, the ADAC points out: Electric cars are exempt from vehicle tax until the end of 2030, which can lead to significant savings.

In addition, the insurance for an electric vehicle is often cheaper, and there are often better conditions for financing. Electric cars also have fewer mechanical components than vehicles with combustion engines, significantly reducing maintenance costs. 

"Oil, filter, and spark plug changes, emission tests, rusty exhaust? None of that exists, which thus spares your wallet," notes the ADAC.

Furthermore, the people from Munich refer to studies that show the maintenance costs of electric vehicles to be 35 percent lower than those of combustion engines.