EV’s are globally seeing rapid uptake rates, especially in urban markets. The global electric fleet sharply increased in 2021, and 2022 is on track to continue that trend. As our social expectations around carbon emissions and consumption are changing, so too are our needs around vehicle ownership. New Zealand is no exception to the exponential growth of electric vehicles, and Blue Sky Finance is here to assist you on your journey with electric vehicle finance!
Shopping around for any new car is a big decision, but when the world of electric vehicles is new too… the decision can be rather convoluted. While there is lots to learn - you are best to get started with which kind of EV is going to suit your lifestyle and needs.
There are three basic categories in the EV market, and each comes with their own perks and challenges. Buying an electric vehicle in New Zealand does not need to be scary - we have plenty of tips to help you find the right car for you! Deciding between battery, fuel cell and plug-in is the hardest part - but with Blue Sky Finance - the finance is easy. Ready to discover the right kind of EV for your car buying needs? Read on! We have the scoop…
The Battery:
Battery electric vehicles are as the name may imply - powered by electricity stored in a battery pack. Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) accounted for two-thirds of new electric car registrations and two-thirds of the EV stock in 2020.
We see a lot of BEV facilities rolling out these days, so even those outside of main centres can reliably charge a BEV. Like how we charge our portable appliances, the BEV holds and stores electricity to use while the vehicle is no longer plugged in. The energy generated while braking is also recovered to the battery.
A BEV will benefit you if you:
- Do not frequently find yourself driving very long distances
- Are often sat in traffic
- Prioritise low running costs
- Are interested in having a low cost second car or ‘daily runner’
- Have off street parking with plug access (especially if you can charge overnight to keep power costs low!)
The Plug-In Hybrid:
The Plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) is a great combination of the familiarity and safety of fuel and the progression of electric vehicle technology. Buying a PHEV in New Zealand is easy with finance from Blue Sky Finance, where we dove into the most affordable EV options to help aid in the decision making progress.
The most obvious and most rewarding perk of the plug in is range. For those prioritising long distance driving over full electric capabilities - buying an EV plug in hybrid is an excellent choice. You have some of the best of both worlds, electric motor when the battery is full, and flick over to fuel when the EV range can’t quite meet the mark. Many EV curious shoppers start out in the plug in hybrid category as it eases some concerns that skeptics face.
The PHEV category has two motors: an electric motor and a combustion engine. During tough acceleration periods, both the motors will work together. Typically the petrol engine will takeover once the power stored in the electric battery is used. PHEVs also utilise regenerative breaking - in both modes.
A PHEV will benefit you if you:
- Find yourself often driving out of a realistic charging range
- Want the safety net of fuel usage
- Use your car for a mixture of short and long haul trips
- Have access to safe, overnight off-street parking and charging (but perhaps may not always want to have to do so)
For Future Thinkers the Fuel Cell:
Fuel cells are already seen as attractive energy options in other industries—the automotive is following suit. While this category has some of the least options available - forecasting shows significant expected market-share for fuel cell electric vehicles in the coming years. Fuel cell is one to keep on your radar if your EV purchase is more of a long term goal. When the technology rolls out in NZ, rest assured Blue Sky Finance will be ready to help!
Let's Get You On the Road!
By 2030 electric vehicles are predicted to account for over 10% of the global fleet- so why not consider being on team early! The best EV cars in NZ can be your reality now. If we can help you on your way drop us a line on 0800 258 375 and the Blue Sky Finance team will be more than happy to assist you financing whatever vehicle is right for you and your unique needs. Unique finance - tailored right to you, as easy and as painless as it gets. Alternatively apply online for car finance in a flash blueskyfinance.co.nz/car-loans.