Electric vehicles are becoming more and more popular, and it’s not hard to see why. They provide a quieter driving experience, the potential to save money on gas, and are much more environmentally friendly. However, one downside to this popularity is that wait times have increased as well.
If you want to buy an EV, you can now wait much longer than for a traditional vehicle. This is partly due to supply and demand, but also due to the current chip shortage. Skipping the waiting list completely is not possible. But here are five ways to speed up your next EV purchase.
1. Buy a used electric vehicle
Used vehicles are not for everyone. There’s something about buying a new car that many people won’t compromise on. In addition to being in perfect condition, it is an easier process. But if you’re considering one, here are some key features to inspect before buying a used EV.
If you’re interested in going the used route, you may be able to buy a used EV much faster than at a retail store. In many parts of the country, it is possible to find and buy one in a few days. Depending on availability, you can find a used EV that looks identical to a retail model but still costs significantly less.
If you want an EV because they are more eco-friendly, a used model is also highly recommended. It’s worth noting that the availability of used EVs varies widely. In some areas, buying used is just as difficult as buying new.
2. Buy from an established car manufacturer
While wait times for electric vehicles are generally increasing, longer wait times are often associated with new manufacturers. Electric vehicles are still a somewhat new concept compared to traditional vehicles. Some Electric Vehicle Brands You’ve Never Heard Of they have only recently started manufacturing them and have not been able to make the process as efficient as possible.
If you want to reduce your wait time, it’s a good idea to stick with established manufacturers. Many of these manufacturers still have wait times, but they tend to be shorter. Because they have been around for a long time, the quote delay is more likely to be more accurate.
3. Be prepared to travel
The availability of electric vehicles varies widely across the country. Regardless of where you live, it should eventually be possible to buy an EV at your local dealership. The current shortage of electric vehicles is not expected to be permanent.
However, if you want to reduce your wait time now, you may find that there are significantly higher stock levels in other cities. This would allow you to significantly broaden your search and, in return, reduce your waiting time.
Driving for hours to do your shopping is obviously not ideal. It is also possible that you drive to another city and find that the model you are interested in has recently been sold. But many people would rather put up with this if it saves them a few months of waiting.
Being prepared to travel to a more buyer-friendly market has other benefits as well. Low stock levels tend to cause dealers to charge a premium for whatever car is available. Therefore, shopping elsewhere can be a good way to save money.
4. Choose your model and fit according to the order of manufacture
If there’s a particular EV you want, there’s very little you can do to get it faster. Many in-demand models have been delayed for over a year, and no amount of bargaining will get you one faster.
However, if you’re flexible about make and model, a little digging might find you getting behind the wheel much faster. In an effort to compete with each other, most manufacturers are producing electric vehicles with similar specifications at similar prices. Opting for something different may therefore not mean a great sacrifice.
Along with the vehicle model, the specific upgrades you want can also influence the wait time. While you may want a specific trim, it’s always worth asking about lead time and asking yourself how long you’re willing to wait to achieve it.
5. Sign up for a waiting list
Many car dealerships now ask consumers to join a waiting list if they want to buy a new electric vehicle. Signing up usually requires a small fee, and then you are given an approximate date to be able to purchase your new car.
If the date being offered is significantly off, this is not always an attractive offer. But it’s still worth signing up anyway. The asking fee is usually not much, and if you find an EV before then or just change your mind about buying one, you can be removed from the waiting list and receive a full refund.
It’s worth noting that the fee for joining a waiting list isn’t always taken out of the price you pay for the car. If you want to join a waiting list, it’s important to ask the dealer if you’re paying part of the price of the car now or an extra fee just for standing in line.
Electric vehicles take longer to buy, but people keep buying
Electric vehicles are an attractive option, but their popularity levels mean they’re not the easiest product to buy right now. If you’re trying to choose between an EV and a traditional vehicle, the delay associated with EVs should definitely be part of your decision.
There are many ways you can reduce your wait time, but they usually involve compromises in both where you buy the vehicle and the type of vehicle you buy. Regardless of what you do, some delay is also inevitable. Buying a traditional vehicle is simply a faster process.
It is worth noting that the purchase of any vehicle is a significant investment and one that tends to last for many years. If it’s an electric vehicle you definitely want, it’s worth the wait to get one.