“I used to plan around gas all the time. Now I charge at home for $18 a week and I’m good to go.”
Danny is a real estate broker in Los Angeles. He works out of his car — showings, meetings, errands, long stretches of parking-lot work between appointments. Gas was never a line item he thought much about until he added up four years of it and compared it to four years of not having to worry about it.
He drives a 2022 Tesla Model Y Performance. Home solar covers most of his charging cost. He plugs in overnight, starts every morning fully charged, and puts down 50 to 150 miles in a typical work day without ever planning around gas. “I go from showing to showing without stopping,” he says. “My EV just keeps me going.”
What surprised him wasn’t just the savings — though skipping gas alone adds up to $3,000 a year — it was the time he saved. No oil changes. No smog checks. No gas stops between showings. “In L.A. traffic, the self-driving features are a total game changer,” he says. “It keeps my drive simple and way more relaxed.”
Danny with his Tesla Model Y Performance
Four years in, Danny has zero interest in going back. The next car will also be electric. “It’s a great experience,” he says. “I’ll most likely make another EV purchase when it’s time.”
His advice for anyone on the fence is short: "Don’t overthink it."
50-150
Miles driven most work days
4 years
of EV life
Solar
Powers most charges
On four years in an EV:
“Skipping gas saves me up to $3,000 a year and a ton of time. That’s a total game changer for me.”
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to charge an EV at home?
Most drivers spend $30–60/month on electricity for a full charge every night. That’s roughly a third of what a typical gas car costs in fuel.
Do I need a garage to own an EV?
No. Millions of EV drivers charge at apartments, workplaces, and public stations. Many never charge at home at all.
How far can an EV go on a single charge?
Most new EVs get 250–400+ miles per charge. For daily driving, most people charge once or twice a week.
Can I take an EV on a road trip?
Yes. Fast-charging networks cover major highways. A typical stop takes 20–30 minutes — enough for coffee and a stretch.
Are used EVs a good deal?
Used EV prices have dropped significantly. Many 2–3 year old models still have 90%+ battery health and qualify for federal tax credits.
What incentives are available for EVs?
Federal tax credits up to $7,500, plus state and utility rebates that vary by location. Use our incentive finder to see what you qualify for.