An EV journey
- September 12, 2025
- Posted by: Joe Milazzo II
- Category: Blog
RTA members,
Nationally, policies on electric vehicles (EVs) are changing — but this week’s blog is not about that.
Regardless of federal or national level incentives, electric vehicles continue to be an increasingly attractive option for many buyers and lessors of motor vehicles.
Two recent articles in the Wall Street Journal speak to the opportunity and what I would characterize as the decreasing tradeoffs. An August article speaks to the steady disappearance of “charging deserts”, noting that “An EV expedition isn’t only a possibility, but a breeze”, and that is a condition that was not present even a few years ago.
A second WSJ article earlier this month highlights the tradeoffs. If you are going to buy a lower-cost used car, an EV is probably not the most financially efficient option. Otherwise, you should seriously consider one, because it has superior torque and power, with zero emissions and lower energy and maintenance costs — although your insurance costs will likely be higher.
FWIW: You might also enjoy this article from the Journal’s auto critic about his selection of an EV for his family: Dan Neil, who writes the Rumble Seat column, is based in Raleigh.
On a personal note: our family has leased an EV for more than a year. We have chosen a small Kia EV model and have been largely pleased with the experience. We also have a level 2 charger at home, which is the vehicular equivalent of charging your phone on your nightstand at night. Feel free to connect with me directly for the specifics of our experience with the vehicle. My summary: it has been positive experience, including the Duke Energy charger prep credit program, and we will definitely consider an EV for our next vehicle, particularly as the technology continues to improve.
Before I forget, the regional business community’s ongoing electrification recognition program is continuing into 2026. Several RTA members are engaged in this and others can join at any time; please get with RTA membership operations coordinator Jacob Rigg with questions.
Let’s get moving,
Joe
