Don't go in blind. From understanding 'Range Anxiety' to checking State of Health (SOH), here is your essential checklist before signing the dotted line.
The EV Beginner's Bible
Thinking of making the switch? Here are the 5 non-negotiables.
1. Range vs. Real Range
The advertised range (WLTP) is often optimistic. In Sri Lanka, with A/C always on and traffic, expect 70-80% of the advertised range.
2. SOH (State of Health) is Everything
Never buy a used EV without an extended scan. The battery SOH determines the car's value. A car with 10 bars (Nissan Leaf scale) is worth significantly less than one with 12 bars.
3. Charging Connector Types
Know your plugs! The most common in Sri Lanka are Type 2 (AC) and CHAdeMO (DC - Japanese) or CCS2 (DC - European/Tesla). Ensure your local charging station supports your car.
4. Home Charging is Key
If you don't have a dedicated parking spot with a plug point at home, owning an EV will be a hassle. Public charging should be for emergencies or long trips only.
5. Regenerative Braking
It feels weird at first! The car slows down when you lift your foot off the accelerator. This recovers energy. You will get used to it in 2 days and won't want to drive any other way.
