FAQs

Clean vehicles come in three technology types: battery-electric, plug-in hybrid electric, and hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles.

• Battery-electric vehicles (EVs) run entirely on electricity stored in a rechargeable onboard battery that is charged by plugging into the electric grid.
• Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles combine a battery and electric motor with a gasoline engine, allowing them to operate on electricity, gasoline, or a mix of both.
• Hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles use a fuel cell to generate electricity through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen. This electricity powers an electric motor that drives the vehicle.

Acceleration is nearly instantaneous when driving electric. Handling is often improved because the placement of the battery pack lowers the vehicle’s center of gravity compared to vehicles with a traditional engine. Driving electric is also whisper quiet. 

According to the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory, modern EV batteries will last anywhere from 12 to 15 years in moderate climates and operate between 100,000 and 200,000 miles—and even longer with careful charging practices. Hydrogen tanks in fuel cell electric vehicles generally have a certified lifespan of about 15 years. 

For comparison, the Bureau of Transportation Statistics reports that the average age of all passenger vehicles in the U.S. is 12-13 years, meaning EVs and hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles can match or exceed the typical lifespan of conventional cars.

If you are still concerned, know that most of these vehicles come with battery warranties of 8 years or 100,000 miles (some brands offer up to 10 years or higher mileage). These warranties typically guarantee that the battery will retain around 70% of its original capacity during that period. In addition to the battery, EVs also include standard bumper-to-bumper and powertrain warranties, so drivers can expect reliability for many years—often well beyond the warranty period.

Yes, many EVs are capable of towing and hauling heavy loads, but it depends on the model. Larger electric SUVs and trucks often have towing capacities similar to their gasoline counterparts (some rated more than 7,500 pounds). Keep in mind: towing a trailer or carrying extra weight will reduce driving range more quickly, just as it does with gasoline vehicles. Checking the manufacturer’s towing rating is the best way to know what your EV can safely handle.

Yes, an EV can be great for a road trip, but it requires a little more planning than when using a gasoline car. Most modern EVs have 200-300+ miles of range, and public DC fast chargers can add significant range in 20-45 minutes. Many navigation systems and apps can help plan routes with charging locations along the way, turning driving breaks into part of the journey. 

Battery-electric and hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles have fewer moving parts, which means fewer components that can break down. Their electric motors also provide regenerative braking, reducing wear on the brakes. As a result, electric motors, battery packs, and brake components generally have a longer lifespan than those in gasoline-powered cars. Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, however, include both electric and gasoline systems, so their maintenance needs are similar to conventional vehicles. 

California is the nation’s leader in public EV charging and charging companies and government agencies continue to add chargers. Although public charging can support the needs of those living in apartments or condos, it may not be the most convenient or cost-effective option. If you live in a multifamily complex, work with your property manager to install on-site charging. Some drivers may also be able to charge at work. Plug-in hybrids offer the flexibility of fueling at a gas station. Most hydrogen stations are concentrated in major cities. Some resources to help include:

• Forth Mobility
• Charge at Home 

Most towing companies are familiar with the protocols needed for EVs. Depending on the EV’s battery pack, towing may require a flatbed truck.

EVs, plug-in hybrids, and hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles must meet the same federal safety standards as all cars sold in the U.S., and many earn top crash-test ratings. In some cases, EVs perform even better in crashes because their lower center of gravity reduces the risk of rollovers. EV batteries are designed with multiple layers of protection and automatic shut-off systems to prevent fire or electrical hazards in the event of a collision. As with conventional vehicles, safety is further enhanced by airbags, crumple zones, and advanced driver-assistance systems. Also, automakers have created collision detectors, fuses, and circuit breakers that disconnect an EV’s batteries during a crash, and many emergency responders are trained specifically on these vehicles. 

It depends on your EV type and your driving style. 

• Battery-electric vehicles generally go between 100 to more than 500 miles on a full charge.
• Plug-in hybrids provide an electric-only driving range of 10-80 miles but can also go up to 600 miles on the gasoline-powered hybrid motor.
• Hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles can travel between 300-400 miles before refueling. 

Keep in mind that the average Californian travels less than 30 miles a day.

Most EV drivers find charging to be easy and convenient. Like your cell phone, you plug in your EV at night and wake in the morning with a full charge. If charging at home is not possible, you will find public charging stations along California roadways and throughout your community where you work, shop, dine, and play. You can find links to several charger location apps on our Resources page. To charge, you simply plug the charging cable connector into the car’s charging port and follow the instructions on the charging station to activate it. 

In California, there are more charger connections than gasoline nozzles. You’ll find charging stations at shopping centers, banks, movie theaters, convenience stores, public parks, libraries, hospitals, grocery stores, parking lots, colleges, and more. Most are open to the public, some are free, and others require payment. Learn more about charging and fueling.

Websites and mobile apps are available to locate and direct you to charging stations. Many EV onboard navigation systems provide real-time information about station operation and availability. Some onboard systems, like PlugShare, will help you plan long trips, suggesting optimal charging locations based on your vehicle’s range.

Charging time depends on the size of the battery and the type of charger you use:

• Level 1 (standard 120V outlet at home): Adds about 3‒5 miles of range per hour or about 40 miles overnight.
• Level 2 (240V home or public charger): Adds about 14‒35 miles of range per hour. EV owners can install a Level 2 charger at home for overnight charging and convenience.
• DC fast charging (public “fast chargers”): Adds 100‒150+ miles of range in about 30 minutes. Available at public stations, fast chargers are expanding across California at businesses and along travel corridors.

Most EV owners plug in at home overnight, so their car is ready each morning, similar to charging a phone. For long trips, public fast chargers make it possible to recharge quickly along the way.

Filling up a hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle is very similar to pumping gasoline:

• It typically takes about 3‒5 minutes to fill the tank at a hydrogen station.
• The process uses a special nozzle, and the pump automatically stops when the tank is full.
• Once filled, most hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles can drive 300‒400 miles before refueling, depending on the model.

The main difference is that hydrogen stations are less common than gas stations today, so availability depends on where you live.

Your EV dashboard displays the miles and percentage charge you have left. As your EV's power runs low, it will alert you. Then you can use the navigation system or an app to locate the nearest charging station. If you run out of power, you’ll need roadside assistance to provide a mobile charging truck or tow your EV to a charging station. This rarely happens because your EV keeps you aware of its charge level, just like a fuel gauge.

Incentive offerings change regularly, but here are some examples:

• Access Clean California helps connect people with low- to moderate income to clean energy and transportation programs.
• Clean Cars 4 All provides grants of up to $12,000 for low-income residents to replace older vehicles with new or used EVs.
• Driving Clean Assistance Program offers financial assistance for low- and moderate-income individuals to purchase or lease new or used EVs.
• Many California electric utility providers and air districts offer rebates for EV purchases and home charger installations.

For incentives available in your area, search Incentives.

All EVs come with a free Level 1 charging cable that plugs into a standard wall outlet with no equipment installation required. Level 1 is the slowest method but sufficient for drivers who charge overnight and travel 30-40 miles a day. 

Level 2 charging is considerably faster but requires installing a charging station with a dedicated 240V electrical circuit. Installation costs will depend on the system you select, permit fees, labor, and your home’s configuration. In California, average costs typically range between $500 and $700. The more unpredictable cost is the installation, which can range from $400 to $1,200 or more depending on factors like distance from the electrical panel, wiring complexity, and permit requirements. Incentives may be available to offset these expenses. Learn more about charging at home.

Financing a clean vehicle is basically the same as a gasoline-powered car, with some potential advantages. Some lenders offer “green auto” loans that may have higher loan amounts, lower interest rates, or longer repayment terms to offset higher EV purchase prices.

A total cost of ownership comparison is complicated because it depends on the vehicle type and model, varying gasoline and electricity costs, and driving and charging habits. Most sources agree that while an EV’s initial price may be higher, the long-term savings on fuel and maintenance make them more affordable. The higher upfront cost is why incentives are so important to achieve the EV benefits of cleaner air and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. For more details on clean vehicle costs, refer to Why Choose a Clean Vehicle.

Insurance for a clean vehicle can cost more than a gasoline-powered one, largely because clean vehicles are more expensive than comparable standard models. However, the gap is narrowing, and in some model pairings EVs can even be less expensive to insure.

Yes, California owners of model year 2020 or newer battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles pay a Road Improvement Fee that is adjusted annually for inflation ($121 for 2026). Plug-in hybrids pay a reduced fee. This is in addition to fees applied to all vehicle registrations.