Talking Cars 354: Everything You Want to Know About EVs

Main theme: With dozens of all-new, pure-electric vehicles set to debut by the end of 2024, and interest sparked by high gas prices, EVs have become an even hotter topic than usual. (Learn about automakers’ EV plans.) Because EVs remain a new and, for many, a curious unknown, we’re devoting this entire episode to answering the bevy of EV-related questions we’ve been getting from our loyal and inquisitive “Talking Cars” audience. 

If you have a question—on any auto-related topic—don’t be shy! Send it to TalkingCars@icloud.com.

Audience Questions

• My parents have ordered their first EV, a Cadillac Lyriq. Is there something similar to an “EV 101” resource I can point them to that would have the answers to all their questions?
• If you were advising someone who has their eye on an EV today, would you suggest that they lease or buy?
• Is there any type of break-in period for EVs, equivalent to the break-in rules that owners’ manuals outline for vehicles with internal combustion engines? 
• What EVs would you expect will remain structurally sound and free of rust to justify an expensive battery replacement years down the road?
• A recent snowstorm and traffic jam in northern Virginia got me thinking: What would have happened if many of those were EVs? Would the batteries have lasted long enough to keep occupants warm? 
• I’ve heard that cold weather decreases EV driving range, but what’s the story with EVs in hot climates?
• What happens the moment an EV runs out of electricity? Does it just stop in the middle of the road?