This story comes to us from Keirsten H. in Maryland who made the transition to an electric vehicle and hasn’t looked back since.
At the end of 2024, I made a significant shift in my driving experience by purchasing a Tesla Model Y. The decision to purchase an electric vehicle (EV) came with extensive research and thoughtful decision-making. My journey into EV ownership was fueled by the need for a reliable vehicle as I transitioned from the corporate world to entrepreneurship.
One of my favorite aspects of owning an EV is the charging experience. Despite initial concerns about charging times—especially with the many scary stories circulating—I’ve found it to be much quicker than I expected. I rely solely on the Tesla Supercharger network and have never needed to charge for more than 30 minutes at a time. The preconditioning feature, which prepares the battery for optimal charging, has been a game-changer.
One of my favorite aspects of owning an EV is the charging experience. Despite initial concerns about charging times—especially with the many scary stories circulating—I’ve found it to be much quicker than I expected.
Inside the car, the intuitive technology makes driving enjoyable. While I appreciate all the high-tech features, I love that they enhance the experience without feeling overwhelming. The numerous cameras and visibility features provide a sense of security, while the regenerative braking stands out as one of the best functionalities.
One of my biggest hesitations before purchasing an EV was its performance in cold weather. I worried about how quickly the car would heat up and whether I’d be able to rely on the heating system in the winter. However, after thorough research and firsthand experience, I’ve had no issues keeping warm in my EV.
Choosing the right EV was another important step. While I initially favored the Volkswagen ID.4, I ultimately decided on a Tesla Model Y for its robust Supercharger network and fast-charging capabilities, which best suited my lifestyle. Although I haven’t taken a long road trip yet, I feel confident that the infrastructure is in place to support spontaneous travels.
Since I currently have three months of free supercharging, I rely solely on Tesla’s network. Looking ahead, I may consider installing a home charger. Keeping costs low was a major factor in my decision to switch to an EV, especially when considering long-term savings on maintenance. Purchasing my EV is also the first car I’ve ever purchased on my own, making it a particularly meaningful investment.
The financial incentives played a role in my decision as well. I was able to take advantage of the $7,500 federal tax credit and may be able to take advantage of an additional $3,000 state rebate. These incentives, combined with my knowledge of long-term cost savings, solidified my decision to go electric.
While I haven’t directly influenced anyone to switch to an EV yet, I frequently discuss my experience with friends who are curious about making the switch. I also recognize that there are additional clean energy actions I can take in my home, reinforcing my commitment to sustainable living.
Looking back, purchasing an EV was one of the most well-researched decisions I’ve ever made. My EV is the most spacious car I’ve ever driven, and I love the freedom it provides. The journey into EV ownership has been seamless, and I’m excited for what’s ahead—whether it’s taking my first road trip or exploring more ways to integrate clean energy into my daily life.
Looking back, purchasing an EV was one of the most well-researched decisions I’ve ever made. My EV is the most spacious car I’ve ever driven, and I love the freedom it provides.
