Test Your EV Knowledge
Take a closer look at some of the most common EV myths and the facts behind them.
Curious about electric vehicles?
We’re digging into the questions people ask most — from costs and charging to everyday driving and what going electric really means.
Costs & Value
Don’t EVs cost more to own than gas vehicles?
EVs often cost less to own over time. You'll spend less on routine maintenance and fuel since EVs don’t require oil changes or transmission upkeep. Plus, you may qualify for rebates that help offset upfront costs.
Source: U.S. Department of Energy
Can Oregon afford the transition to electric?
Investing in EV infrastructure creates local jobs, strengthens the economy and saves money on fuel and maintenance in the long run. Electrification pays off — for drivers, for communities and for the state.
Source: Oregon Department of Energy
Charging & Access
Are there even enough EV charging stations?
Oregon’s EV charging network is expanding quickly, with over 2,000 ports available and thousands of new public stations being added each year. Plus, with PGE’s Electric Avenue stations and apps like PlugShare, ChargePoint and Electrify America, finding a place to plug in is simple.
Source: Alternative Fuels Data Center
Doesn't charging take forever?
Most charging can happen at home overnight — and when you're out and about, public Level 2 or DC fast chargers make it easy to power up while you work, shop or run errands. Charging fits your life, not the other way around.
Everyday Driving & Range
Are EVs more than just “fancy golf carts” and are they capable of towing?
Today’s EVs come in all shapes and sizes — SUVs, camper vans and trucks — with towing capacities of up to 11,000 pounds, delivering instant torque for powerful and smooth acceleration. EVs fit real life, from commutes and carpools to weekend road trips and heavy-duty chores.
Source: S&P Global
Aren’t EVs only good for short drives?
Many EVs today offer 250-300+ miles on a single charge, and fast-charging stations along major routes are expanding, making long-distance travel increasingly feasible.
Are EVs just a fad or are they here to stay?
EVs are here to stay — with more models, more range and more automakers committing to an electric future than ever before. The shift to electric is already underway — and it’s accelerating fast.
Source: International Energy Agency
Impact & Safety
Aren’t EVs just as bad for the environment as gas vehicles?
EVs produce fewer total emissions than gas vehicles — and they get cleaner every year as our energy mix becomes more renewable. Transportation is Oregon’s biggest source of carbon emissions — but that’s changing. PGE’s working to cut carbon 80% by 2030 and every electric mile helps clear the air a little more.
Are gas vehicles safer than electric vehicles?
EVs meet the same rigorous federal safety standards as gas vehicles — and their design often gives them safety benefits, such as a lower center of gravity that can reduce rollover risk.
Can the electrical grid handle all those EVs?
EV adoption is expected to increase electricity demand by less than 1% per year — a level utilities can plan for and manage as the grid continues to evolve. With ongoing upgrades to our growing grid, flexible charging options and programs like PGE’s Smart Charging, we’re focused on keeping the grid reliable, resilient and ready to meet customer needs.
Source: U.S. Department of Energy
Get the EV basics
Whether you’re new to electric vehicles or just curious how they work, this video breaks it down in a simple, easy-to-understand way — from what’s actually under the hood to the benefits of driving electric and how charging fits into everyday life.
Ready to take the next step?
Our EV Costs & Savings estimator tool helps you explore EV options, understand costs and charging, and see the benefits of driving electric.
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