Who are EV owners? The answer might surprise you…

Take a drive around Oshawa’s city streets and you’re bound to spot vehicles of all shapes and sizes, from two-door coupes to lifted pickup trucks to family-friendly minivans. But one increasingly common type of vehicle has started to stand out – the electric vehicle (EV).

With more than 1,000 EV owners across the city (and hundreds more coming and going from towns across Ontario!), it’s no longer rare to spot an EV cruising Oshawa’s roadways. Whether you spot an EV charging at the Oshawa Centre or your attention is captured by a sleek design and near silent operation, you’ve likely found yourself wondering ‘who are EV owners?’.

The answer? Most likely somebody just like you. Gone are the days when EVs were a radical shift from the landscape of traditional personal transportation adopted only by the most ardent and dedicated environmentalists (with deep pockets too!).

We caught up with local, everyday EV owners to show you that EVs are a realistic and cost effective option for anyone, from any lifestyle.

Today’s guest: The Modern Classic

Name: David

EV Owner Since: 2021

EV: Mustang Mach E

What made you choose an EV?

For me, it was my concerns for the environment. Climate Change, Green House Gas Emissions, I knew I needed to do my part. Saving on gas, maintenance and operating costs switching to an EV was a nudge to make the change.

Did you have to make any changes to your lifestyle or driving habits?

I wouldn’t say any major lifestyle changes but my wife and I do choose to drive the Mustang Mach E over her Hyundai Tuscan.

What reaction do you normally get when you tell people you drive an EV?

People are amazed I drive a Mustang! I think they expect to hear Tesla when I say I drive electric. The number one question I do get asked is ‘how far can you go on a charge?’

What is your typical charging routine?

Initially I charged every two weeks; letting the SOC get as low as 5% and charging to 80%. I’ve changed my routine after listening to Dr. Jeff Dahn from Dalhousie University. Now I charge every Friday night, charging only to 80%. This is what works best for me and my EV!

What is your opinion of the local public charging infrastructure?

It’s not extensive enough, especially for long distance travel. Across the board it seems Tesla Superchargers are the most reliable option when compared to CCS. My local chapter, EV Society-Northumberland, is currently with Cobourg staff and council to have 16 chargers installed in various around Cobourg.

What is the longest trip that you have taken in your EV?

My longest trip so far was Cobourg to Bracebridge, approximately 215 km.

Have you noticed any savings since you started driving an EV?

Let’s break it down. “Fueling” costs for electricity charging at the overnight off-peak rate is 1/10th the equivalent cost of gasoline. You have to remember; you’re normally charging at night when the electricity rates are low.

Are there any challenges you have faced as an EV driver?

Challenges? I lost the battle to drive to Halifax using our EV – my wife still has a bit of range anxiety. I get it, we need to see some improvements happen to public charging infrastructure, that being said, I know a lot of people who drive EV and travel long distance!

What are the most positive parts of your EV experience?

I get to ignore gas prices! I love what I drive and I love engaging with others about driving EV.

What advice would you give to someone considering purchasing an EV?

My advice would be to do your homework. Look at your driving habits and find an EV that fits your lifestyle. There are so many options out there now! Also, look into installing a Level 2 charger at home before you buy an EV.\

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