Gas prices are through the roof and we're feeling the pinch at the gas station. Is now the right time to invest in an electric vehicle?

There's no sugarcoating it: Automobiles leave a big footprint. Extracting petroleum products from the earth and shipping them around the planet is both energy-intensive and damaging (let's not forget about oil spills!). There's also the tailpipe emissions problem: vehicles in the US are responsible for a whopping one-third of all air pollution in the country.

The rollout of electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids, and traditional hybrids is good news if you’re looking for an alternative to the combustion engine, and that's because these models provide energy-efficient transportation while lowering/eliminating tailpipe emissions, diminishing noise, and reducing operating costs.

On today's show my guest and I outline 5 things to consider before purchasing or leasing your next vehicle. Jon Linkov is the Deputy Autos Editor at Consumer Reports and he brings a wealth of real-world knowledge as both a tester of cars and an owner of an electric vehicle to our conversation.

Here's a preview:

[2:30] The major differences as well as the minor intricacies that distinguish hybrids and plug-in hybrids from electric vehicles

[9:00] The price problem: Weighing sticker prices with federal and state rebates and gasoline costs

[13:00] Everything you need to know about the $7500 US Federal Tax Incentive on (some) electric vehicles

[17:30] Should we be concerned about running out of charge? All-things charging, charging stations, at-home charger installation, and the average driving ranges of top EV models

[22:00] Do EVs and hybrids need more frequent — and more expensive — maintenance? (Hint: the answer is no.)

[24:00] Jon's thoughts on whether alternate technologies are actually fun to drive

Resources mentioned and further reading:

--

* Join our (free!) community here.

* Find your tribe. Sustainable Minimalists are on Facebook, Instagram + Youtube.

* Email me and say hello! [email protected].