How Nick's EV research saved him over $2,000 a year

How Nick's EV research saved him over $2,000 a year

Nick C.

Age: 34 | Fenton, MI | "Plant Dad"

"I didn't expect to love driving an EV truck this much."

Nick wasn't shopping for an EV. He was shopping for an answer. With a baby on the way and gas prices climbing, the math on a one-car household stopped feeling sustainable — and the next vehicle his family bought would need to do everything: haul plants and compost for his work, fit two dogs, a car seat, and not break the bank.

He went to ElectricForAll.org to see if an EV truck could actually pull it off. The Used EV Finder showed him every preowned EV truck available in his area. The EV Savings Calculator showed him the number that closed the case: about $2,050 in gas savings a year — or, in the unit of measurement currently most relevant to him, "approximately 7,000 diapers."

That research sped up the buying process. A few weeks later, he drove home a 2025 Ford F-150 Lightning XLT — the most affordable EV truck on his shortlist and the one that fit how his family lives. Buying pre-owned made the math work twice: once on the sticker, once at the pump.

Nick with his used Ford F-150 Lightning XLT

The biggest surprise wasn't the savings — it was how the truck fit a growing family. "It's quiet, so I can easily have babies sleep in the back seat," Nick says. The acceleration is smooth and immediate too — a bonus he'll come to appreciate at every life stage to come.

The convenience surprised him too. No more gas stops. No oil changes. More public chargers than he expected on rural Michigan routes. And most of the time he just plugs in at home — a full charge runs $20.58. His father-in-law, who drives a gas-powered F-150, is reportedly jealous.

Next month, Nick's installing solar. "I can charge my EV with the sun. It's basically driving for free."

$2,050

Annual gas savings

$20.58

Cost to fully charge at home

12ft

Tallest plant the truck bed has hauled

What surprised him most about switching to an EV:

"Going from gas to electric is such a driving performance upgrade — and everyone who gets in the car says how much fun it is to drive."

The tools that helped Nick decide

Two free resources that take the guesswork out of going electric. Built for people exactly like Nick: curious, careful, and ready for an honest answer.

EV Savings Calculator

The Savings Calculator showed Nick exactly what he'd save where he lives — about $2,050 a year — and recommended models that fit his needs. See what going electric could mean for your budget.

Used EVs & Incentives

Nick chose the Used EV Finder to compare previously owned EV trucks where he lives, side by side. Filter by price, range, body type, even time to charge. Find an EV that fits how you actually live.

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More real stories from real drivers. Find someone like you.

 #DailyCommuter #HighMileage

“I used to plan around gas all the time. Now I charge at home for $18 a week and I’m good to go.”

#HeavyCommuter #SolarHome

“I charge while I sleep and start every morning with a full charge. It’s that simple.”

#UsedEV #BudgetBuyer

“My 2013 Nissan Leaf was $3,000, eliminating all car payments. It’s actually the cheapest car I’ve ever owned, gas or electric.”

#Multigenerational #FamilyLife

"Our car is in constant rotation. Sometimes I use it, sometimes my daughter or my son-in-law does. Different schedules, different plans, no stress."

#Outdoors #RoadTrips

“Trails, parks, camping nights in the truck bed. It’s not just going from point A to point B. It’s the freedom to keep going.”

#FamilyManager #FamilyBudget

"My EV savings with my family budget has been super helpful."


#ApartmentDweller #Incentives

"You don't need to own a home to own an EV. I just plug in at my apartment."


#HeavyCommuter #SolarHome

“I charge while I sleep and start every morning with a full charge. It’s that simple.”

#UsedEV #BudgetBuyer

“My 2013 Nissan Leaf was $3,000, eliminating all car payments. It’s actually the cheapest car I’ve ever owned, gas or electric.”

#Outdoors #RoadTrips

“Trails, parks, camping nights in the truck bed. It’s not just going from point A to point B. It’s the freedom to keep going.”

#Multigenerational #FamilyLife

"Our car is in constant rotation. Sometimes I use it, sometimes my daughter or my son-in-law does. Different schedules, different plans, no stress."

#FamilyManager #FamilyBudget

"My EV savings with my family budget has been super helpful."

#ApartmentDweller #Incentives

"You don't need to own a home to own an EV. I just plug in at my apartment."


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.

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© 2026 Veloz | All Rights Reserved.

© 2026 Veloz | All Rights Reserved.

Veloz’s mission, as a nonprofit organization, is to educate the public regarding the state of electric vehicle technology and its importance to a clean and healthy environment in a non-commercial manner. Veloz does not support or promote any particular car manufacturer and nothing on this website is intended as an endorsement.


¹ Savings depend on individual variables. Calculate your savings.  ² Estimated annual savings based on average gas prices and mileage. Actual savings vary by driving habits, electricity costs, and vehicle model. Use our calculator to estimate your savings. Source: U.S. Department of Energy  ³ Based on industry analysis of powertrain components and maintenance requirements. EVs generally contain fewer moving parts than gas vehicles, contributing to lower routine maintenance needs. Actual cost savings vary by make, model, and driving habits. Source: University of Michigan study via EV Design & Manufacturing  ⁴ Range estimates vary by make, model, and driving conditions. Many new EVs on the market today offer EPA-estimated ranges between 250 and 400+ miles on a full charge. Source: Coltura.org  ⁵ Charging speed varies by vehicle model, battery size, and conditions. Level 2 estimates based on typical 240V home chargers. DC fast charging estimates reflect optimal conditions using compatible public infrastructure. Actual performance may vary.

Veloz’s mission, as a nonprofit organization, is to educate the public regarding the state of electric vehicle technology and its importance to a clean and healthy environment in a non-commercial manner. Veloz does not support or promote any particular car manufacturer and nothing on this website is intended as an endorsement.


¹ Savings depend on individual variables. Calculate your savings.  ² Estimated annual savings based on average gas prices and mileage. Actual savings vary by driving habits, electricity costs, and vehicle model. Use our calculator to estimate your savings. Source: U.S. Department of Energy  ³ Based on industry analysis of powertrain components and maintenance requirements. EVs generally contain fewer moving parts than gas vehicles, contributing to lower routine maintenance needs. Actual cost savings vary by make, model, and driving habits. Source: University of Michigan study via EV Design & Manufacturing  ⁴ Range estimates vary by make, model, and driving conditions. Many new EVs on the market today offer EPA-estimated ranges between 250 and 400+ miles on a full charge. Source: Coltura.org  ⁵ Charging speed varies by vehicle model, battery size, and conditions. Level 2 estimates based on typical 240V home chargers. DC fast charging estimates reflect optimal conditions using compatible public infrastructure. Actual performance may vary.

Join the #ElectricForAll Momentum

Follow us for the latest EV updates, tips, and stories.

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© 2025 Veloz | All Rights Reserved.

Veloz’s mission, as a nonprofit organization, is to educate the public regarding the state of electric vehicle technology and its importance to a clean and healthy environment in a non-commercial manner. Veloz does not support or promote any particular car manufacturer and nothing on this website is intended as an endorsement.

¹ Federal tax credit of up to $7,500 available to eligible buyers of qualifying new electric vehicles. Eligibility and amount may vary. Visit IRS.gov or consult a tax professional for details. Source: U.S. Department of Energy ² Savings estimate based on total cost of ownership analysis comparing popular electric and gas-powered vehicles over an average vehicle lifespan. Actual savings will vary based on model, fuel prices, maintenance costs, and driving habits. Source: Atlas Public Policy ³ Estimated annual savings based on average gas prices and mileage. Actual savings vary by driving habits, electricity costs, and vehicle model. Use our calculator to estimate your savings. Source: U.S. Department of Energy ⁴ Based on industry analysis of powertrain components and maintenance requirements. EVs generally contain fewer moving parts than gas vehicles, contributing to lower routine maintenance needs. Actual cost savings vary by make, model, and driving habits. Source: University of Michigan study via EV Design & Manufacturing ⁵ Range estimates vary by make, model, and driving conditions. Many new EVs on the market today offer EPA-estimated ranges between 250 and 400+ miles on a full charge. Source: Coltura.org ⁶ Charging speed varies by vehicle model, battery size, and conditions. Level 2 estimates based on typical 240V home chargers. DC fast charging estimates reflect optimal conditions using compatible public infrastructure. Actual performance may vary. ⁷ Federal tax credit of up to $4,000 available to eligible buyers of qualifying used electric vehicles. Income and vehicle qualifications apply. Visit IRS.gov or consult a tax professional for full details. Source: U.S. Department of Energy