Why drive electric?

Transportation accounts for about 40% of all greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Hawaii, that’s 10% higher than the mainland average.

 

Electric Vehicle Benefits

Electric cars offer you many benefits, including:

  • A superior driving experience - Electric cars are cool, smooth, quick, and quiet. They represent the next generation in transportation technology and are a 'blast' to drive. If you have not had a chance to ride or test drive one, you'll be in for a nice surprise when you do.

  • Low maintenance and fuel costs. Unlike gas cars, electric cars do not require oil changes and have far fewer moving parts so they are easier and less costly to maintain. The regenerative braking feature (‘regen’) of EVs allow brake pads to last a long time. With regen, you’re able to slow an EV down by easing up on the accelerator; while doing this you’re also recharging your battery! Learn more about regen.

How does an electric car compare to a gas car when it comes to ‘fueling’? In many cases, it is cheaper to power an electric car. You can perform your comparisons using a savings calculator from ChooseEV.com.

  • No gas station visits. A big plus of electric cars is that you get to say "goodbye" to gasoline stations. No more smelly, toxic gas fumes.

  • Contribution to a cleaner environment and broader climate action. As an electric car owner, you contribute to Hawaii's clean energy goals, help to reduce harmful emissions, and contribute actively to improving our climate situation. When ownership is paired with a properly sized solar PV system, it’s possible to ‘run on sun’! Learn more about the environmental benefit of electric vehicles.

  • Clean air and reduction of lung illnesses. The health consequences of air pollution are well known. The exhaust gases from internal combustion engines contribute to local air pollution and create health hazards, especially in heavily congested areas. Studies have demonstrated that reducing gas and diesel-burning vehicles save lives and reduce healthcare-related expenses.

 

Ownership Incentives

There are also a number of perks designed to incentivize the transition to clean transportation.

  • Tax incentives - In an effort to encourage the adoption of sustainable transportation, the Federal and State governments employ a number of incentives for electric vehicles and charging equipment. These incentives can offset the cost of ownership for many. For the latest visit our Federal incentives page.

  • Free charging at some commercial establishments. (Some Target stores offer free charging for the first 2 hours.)

  • HOV lane access on Oahu.