Age is just a number, which is true in the case of EVs. They have taken not only youngsters by storm but also intrigued older people. Their low-maintenance, easy-to-drive features and exceptional performance have motivated the seniors to go electric. However, are there any grandpas or grandmas driving an EV? Companies have been trying to make electric cars for seniors that are safe and require less maintenance. Most seniors are retirees who cannot afford such expensive cars.
Moreover, they still rely on conventional transportation, which has been around for ages. It is difficult to sway them to acknowledge climate change’s effects. Indeed, gas cars are still a reliable method of transportation. Nowadays, older people are interested in using electricity. They have realised how beneficial these electric-powered motors are. Companies are now thinking of ways to produce more Senior-friendly electric cars that do not require much effort.
Why should the elderly choose Electric Cars over Gas Cars?
What’s remarkable about EVs that gives them an upper hand over gas cars? Eco-friendliness? Better features? More efficiency? Let’s discuss why electric cars are better for seniors than gas cars.
1- Lower costs
You might argue over the cost of EVs; however, I beg you to differ. EVs are a one-time investment that may save you other costs. For instance, you may have bought any of the Tesla models that are high-rated and easy-to-drive electric cars. They were expensive, but you might save on their maintenance costs. Their batteries will last more than ten years, meaning fewer mechanic visits. Moreover, EVs run on electricity, which is cheaper than gas. Electric cars for retirees are unaffected by fluctuations in fuel price, which saves fuel costs considerably.
2- Easy refill
Seniors often need help refilling their cars, and most may need to be mobile. They need an alternative to gas refills. One of the many amazing facts about EVs is they can be charged at home. Previously, people hesitated to buy them as there were few charging stations. Companies like Tesla realised the problem and put up several charging stations. Other companies have released comfortable electric cars for seniors that can be charged in the comfort of their homes. Home chargers are easy to install and offer the same convenience as charging stations. You can also use solar charging to prevent spikes in electricity bills.
3- Eco-friendliness
Older folks may deny climate change, but the tables have turned. They now want sustainable transportation, which will lead to a greener future. EVs offer eco-compatibility. They are the closest competitors to gas cars. EVs operate on batteries, which are more efficient than combustion engines.
What’s more, they do not produce any tailpipe emissions of greenhouse gases. Low-maintenance electric cars for seniors have less carbon footprint as they can be charged from eco-friendly sources. Their electric motors are highly efficient and prevent energy wastage. Their batteries can also be recycled and do not end up in landfills.
4- Better incentives
EVs give you more than you spend. Their expensive price tag is just one way to look at the picture. Governments are making efforts to bring EVs back on the road. Recently, the Colorado governor launched an incentive that gives EV buyers $7500 worth of tax credits. Since this is a Senior citizens EV guide, most older adults are retirees who cannot afford expensive EVs. You can assume that’s why most people refrain from buying EVs. However, getting money back on an EV purchase? Now that’s a newsworthy initiative. EV drivers do not pay gas taxes, which further reduces their costs.
5- High performance
Why are EVs so efficient? I briefly touched on the topic in my previous articles. EVs are not your ‘pedestal’ vehicles, merely famous for their looks. They have some action as well. Companies are working on improving their responsiveness and handling. They want to enhance Electric vehicle safety for seniors, who cover most of the population. What makes them so efficient? EVs have electric motors that generate linear torque instantly. Therefore, electric motors can surpass combustion engines in efficiency. They accelerate faster than gas cars and cover long distances quickly.
6- Driving range
The Best electric cars for older adults must offer longer driving ranges. EVs have been under constant criticism for their low ranges. They require frequent recharges to stay on the road. However, the EV industry is undergoing a significant revolution. Companies have been making long-range EVs that can outmatch their gas-powered siblings. Not only are these affordable electric cars for seniors highly efficient, but they also stay on the road longer. They save you the hassle of recharging them every once in a while. EVs with larger battery packs can travel longer distances, making them ideal for lengthy travels.
What are The Best Electric Cars for Seniors?
Still with me? Good. I have yet to tell you the best electric cars for seniors. How safe are they? And what makes them ideal for older citizens. Let’s look at the list of the best EVs for older people.
1- Kia EV6
| Features | Score/rating |
| Driving range | 282 miles |
| Battery capacity | 58 to77.4 kWh |
| Safety rating | 5 stars |
| Price | $42,600 |
| Fuel economy | 136/100 MPG |
| Horsepower | 167 hp |
| Comfort level | High |
2- Chevrolet Bolt
| Features | Score/rating |
| Driving range | 259 miles |
| Battery capacity | 65 kWh |
| Safety rating | 5 stars |
| Price | $26,500 |
| Fuel economy | 131/109 MPG |
| Horsepower | 200 hp |
| Comfort level | High |
3- Volkswagen ID.4
| Features | Score/rating |
| Driving range | 275 miles |
| Battery capacity | 62 to 82 kWh |
| Safety rating | 5 stars |
| Price | $38,995 |
| Fuel economy | 115/99 MPG |
| Horsepower | 145 hp |
| Comfort level | Moderate |
4- Hyundai IONIQ 5
| Features | Score/rating |
| Driving range | 220 miles |
| Battery capacity | 84 kWh |
| Safety rating | 5 stars |
| Price | $41,800 |
| Fuel economy | 127/94 MPG |
| Horsepower | 168 hp |
| Comfort level | High |
5- Hyundai Kona
| Features | Score/rating |
| Driving range | 260 miles |
| Battery capacity | 64 kWh |
| Safety rating | 5 stars |
| Price | $33,550 |
| Fuel economy | 134/106 MPG |
| Horsepower | 201 hp |
| Comfort level | High |
6- Nissan Leaf
| Features | Score/rating |
| Driving range | 212 miles |
| Battery capacity | 40 to 60 kWh |
| Safety rating | 5 stars |
| Price | $28,140 |
| Fuel economy | 123/99 MPG |
| Horsepower | 147 hp |
| Comfort level | High |
7- Chevrolet Blazer EV
| Features | Score/rating |
| Driving range | 324 miles |
| Battery capacity | 85 kWh |
| Safety rating | 5 stars |
| Price | $44,995 |
| Fuel economy | 103 MPG |
| Horsepower | 557 hp |
| Comfort level | High |
8- Tesla Model 3
| Features | Score/rating |
| Driving range | 272 miles |
| Battery capacity | 50 – 82 kWh |
| Safety rating | 5 stars |
| Price | $40,380 |
| Fuel economy | 134 mpg |
| Horsepower | 271 to 510 hp |
| Comfort level | Moderate |
9- Kia Niro EV
| Features | Score/rating |
| Driving range | 253 miles |
| Battery capacity | 64.8kWh |
| Safety rating | 4 stars |
| Price | $26,940 |
| Fuel economy | 113 mpg |
| Horsepower | 201 horsepower |
| Comfort level | Moderate |
10- Hyundai IONIQ 6
| Features | Score/rating |
| Driving range | 240 to 361 miles |
| Battery capacity | 53 to 77.4 kWh |
| Safety rating | 5 stars |
| Price | $37,500 |
| Fuel economy | 135 mpg |
| Horsepower | 168 to 320 hp |
| Comfort level | High |
11- Genesis G80
| Features | Score/rating |
| Driving range | 282-mile |
| Battery capacity | 87.2 kWh |
| Safety rating | 5 stars |
| Price | $54,400 |
| Fuel economy | 26 mpg |
| Horsepower | 375-hp |
| Comfort level | High |
12- Tesla Model Y
| Features | Score/rating |
| Driving range | 320 miles |
| Battery capacity | 60 to 81 kWh |
| Safety rating | 5 stars |
| Price | $42,990 |
| Fuel economy | 122 mpg |
| Horsepower | 295 hp |
| Comfort level | Low |
Can EV Companies ensure the Safety of Senior Citizens?
For the last few decades, there have been reports of EV incidents involving deadly car crashes and fires. Such incidents are rare, but their damage is lethal. EVs are generally safer than gas cars as they run on electricity. However, their batteries are also a threat to EV drivers. They are made of a liquid substrate that ignites rapidly. Companies are trying to develop safety measures to produce safer Electric cars for seniors. Replacing lithium batteries with lead batteries can reduce the chances of fires caused by overheating. Senior citizens cannot maintain their vehicles regularly; therefore, EVs with lead batteries are a safer option. Moreover, companies perform accurate crash tests before launching an EV. This ensures the vehicle’s reliability for more extended and off-road travels.
Conclusion
Senior citizens deserve the luxury of EVs as much as youngsters. They might be opinionated on whether or not EVs promote a greener environment. However, they still acknowledge the fantastic features they offer. Older adults find it challenging to maintain their automobiles. They can only travel short distances and buy expensive cars as most older people are retirees. Therefore, electric vehicles for seniors require less maintenance and are cheaper to recharge. Seniors can also charge them in the comfort of their homes. Most EVs with larger batteries offer longer driving ranges and are safe. Moreover, they do not rely on gas prices, meaning zero gas taxes.
How many EVs have been sold in the US? What are the best mileage gas cars in 2024? Find out more by visiting our blogs.
I am Umama Farhan and I envision a future with sustainable transportation. My expertise lies in EV market trends, new company launches, and charging stations. I have been doing this for 4 years with determination to promote a greener future. I have dedicated myself to finding novice and existing solutions that can improve the automaking industry with sustainable alternatives.
