Alex Gonzalez, Producer
Monday, February 12, 2024
A new analysis found Nevada drivers can save thousands of dollars by making the switch from a gas-powered car to an electric vehicle.
The Environmental Defense Fund and Climate Power examined the EV costs using Nevada-specific data, and found savings of up to almost $28,000 over 10 years.
Paul Bordenkircher, secretary of the Nevada Electric Vehicle Association, said after crunching some numbers, it made sense for him to purchase a used EV in 2019. While some new models have come down in price and others qualify for tax rebates, Bordenkircher emphasized it is important to not forget about used EVs.
"One of my little soapboxes is not only just electric vehicles, but used electrics in particular," Bordenkircher explained. "Because of the potential savings that I am seeing, and certainly hope that others would see the same thing."
He added in 2022, the Inflation Reduction Act made a tax credit of up to $7,500 available for qualifying buyers on certain EVs, although there are restrictions, like a buyer's income and where the car parts are manufactured. Leasing companies don't have to abide by those same rules, which Bordenkircher pointed out will mean more new EVs are eligible for the tax credit. In addition, as those cars complete their lease cycle, it'll cause even more used EVs to become available. He also noted EVs aren't a great option for everyone in large, primarily rural states like Nevada.
Leasing companies do not have to abide by those same rules, which Bordenkircher pointed out will mean more used EVs will become available as people trade in their cars. He also noted EVs are not great for everyone in large, primarily rural states like Nevada.
Alex Wall, senior clean energy economy adviser for the group Climate Power, said there are many EV options for different lifestyles in today's market. In the analysis, he stressed they aimed to show a wide range of vehicle types to meet the needs of workers, families and individuals.
"Whether that's a truck, whether that's an SUV, whether that's a family sedan," Wall outlined. "Cars at all sorts of levels of the auto industry are saving folks significant money, both when it comes to fueling up versus charging, and also just significantly lower maintenance costs."
While some people remain on the fence about EVs, with concerns about range and lack of charging infrastructure, the report found EVs are bringing good-paying jobs to the Silver State. Since January 2021, an estimated 12,400 Nevada jobs have been created.
get more stories like this via email

Social Issues
While Gov. Ron DeSantis touts "Operation Tidal Wave" as a success, advocates for Florida's immigrant families say the crackdown is tearing them apart …
Social Issues
A new bipartisan poll looks at how Latino voters in Arizona are feeling about President Donald Trump's first 100 days in office - and pollsters descri…
Social Issues
A Minnesota proposal is in the works that supporters say would end forced labor in correctional facilities. They note the 13th Amendment was adopted …
Social Issues
Montana's wildfire risk is 74% higher than other states, so experts are encouraging Montanans to think ahead Saturday on Wildfire Community …
Social Issues
Thousands are expected to rally in Harrisburg on Monday for a "Raise the Wage and Immigrant Rights Day of Action." More than 47,000 Pennsylvania work…
Environment
By Mary Claire Molloy for Mirror Indy.Broadcast version by Joe Ulery for Indiana News Service reporting for the Mirror Indy-Free Press Indiana-Public …
Social Issues
By Lauren Cohen / Broadcast version by Farah Siddiqi reporting for the Kent State NewsLab-Ohio News Connection Collaboration. S.B. 109, a bill that …
Social Issues
An Illinois law professor is weighing in on what she called a "very public and open test of due process" for immigrants being deported from the United…