In this week’s Ask Nathan:
- Now that gas prices are soaring, should I get an EV?
- Help! I need a super cheap and reliable commuter!
The first question is from a reader who is wondering if we should switch to EVs, given the current geopolitical situation. *Note: I think he/she was using a translator or had a few issues with the text, so I kept the majority and added components for context.
Q: RE: Oil is up but that EV is cheap. Should I buy one?
Do a hypothetical question. I know you focus on affordability unlike a lot of other people. We appreciate that. I have been looking at something that will get me back-and-forth to work without (costing) too much money. I owned a Honda Accord for about 10 years. Really good car. I was thinking about (replacing it with) a hybrid. But then gas prices started going insane. I thought about looking at an electric vehicle.
There are some electric cars that are becoming pretty (affordable?.). I drive one the other day. It was a Hyundai Kona EV/ I really liked it. Now I’m beginning to wonder I should go all electric. So confused. It looks like Americans were pulling away from a Evies, but now they’re starting to think about them like I am.
Do you think it would be a (smart decision) to buy an EV in today’s climate? Gas prices near me have gone up almost 50%. And even if the war ends tomorrow, I’m sure the prices (will) stay high for a while. Electricity is just a cheaper way of doing it. Am I wrong to think this way?
— H990226
A: Sure, try it out.
Initially, the whole point of electric vehicles was affordability and sustainability. It is a shame so many automakers leaned into higher pricing early on, as demand for budget-friendly EVs would have made more sense at the time. That said, a few standouts emerged, some still around today. The Hyundai Kona EV is an excellent little commuter, packed with good value. I highly recommend it, IF you’re serious about a new EV.
You are right about gas prices being high, and likely staying that way for a bit. While fuel is still relatively cheap in the United States compared to the rest of the world, it is becoming increasingly painful. Hopefully, this is temporary as global conditions stabilize. Maybe consider a short term lease and see where things are in a year? I rarely recommend leasing, but a short-term EV lease might be a quick solution.
This situation has created an interesting shift for some consumers. Electricity is not free and comes with its own costs, but in places like California, charging an EV can still be 40 to 70 percent cheaper than fueling a comparable gas vehicle for roughly 300 miles of range. Day to day, EVs are much cheaper to run and maintain, and battery and charging tech continue to improve. Still, I believe hybrids and plug-in hybrids remain the best all-around solution for many buyers.
For those dealing with high fuel costs, improving efficiency is key. A few simple steps can make a real difference:
- Maintain proper tire pressure, as low pressure increases drag.
- Remove roof racks and accessories that add weight and hurt aerodynamics.
- Clear out unnecessary weight, which can easily add up and reduce fuel economy.
It sounds minor, but even small changes can add up to meaningful savings over time.
— N
The last question I just received, and I’m posting it over content that will wait until next week.
Q:(Via: Facebook) Fun videos Nathan. I need help to find a car that’s cheap and reliable.
I live near Huston (TX) and I am totally broke. My new job is about 10 miles away and there is no bus that can get me anywhere near it. Sucks to be without a car but I save some money and my mom will help so I am looking at about $2,500 to buy something that can get me back on my feet.
Any advice will help. I need to buy it this week!
A: Okay Chad, I got you.
I looked up some buys in your area. Assuming you can drive out to see these vehicles, you might find something good.
Here’s the thing: there are no guarantees when it comes to cheap used cars. They can look nice, not burn oil, yet still have a major issue that’s hard to detect.
My advice: go with someone who knows cars and consider the following:
- Before your test drive, see how it starts cold. If it was warmed up before your visit, there could be some monkey business going on.
- Make sure it’s not burning too much oil, and that there are no gas leaks.
- The brakes are very important, next to a good running car, it needs to stop safely.
- Hopefully, it will come with a decent set of tires. That’s important too.
- Make sure the paperwork is all in order.
Here are a few listings in Huston, TX that caught my eye.
2002 Ford Crown Victoria (former) Police Interceptor $2,200
1993 Honda Accord DX $2,300
2006 Scion xB $999
2001 Toyota Camry LE $1,600
These cars are said to run well, and some have newer tires. Spare parts are cheap, and all of them are fairly easy to work on.
Best of luck!
– N
