As a New Jersey resident, I’ve watched the push for electric vehicles (EVs) with a mix of curiosity and skepticism.
The state, like much of the country, is nudging us toward a greener future, and I get it—climate change is real, and we all need to do our part (sarcasm).
But for me, the math, the practicality, and the reality of life here just don’t add up to trading in my gas-powered cars for an EV. Here are five reasons why I’m sticking with what I’ve got.
First, there’s the cost. Buying a new car is a big investment, and EVs aren’t cheap. Even with tax incentives, the upfront price tag for a decent electric model is often thousands more than a comparable gas-powered vehicle. I’m not in a position to shell out extra cash just to feel good about my carbon footprint. My current cars are paid off, reliable, and get me where I need to go. Why fix what isn’t broken?
Second, electricity costs in New Jersey are spiking, and now there’s a new EV tax to boot. Charging an EV at home isn’t as affordable as it once seemed, especially with utility rates climbing. And just this year, the state slapped a new registration fee on electric vehicles—starting at $250 and rising annually—to make up for lost gas tax revenue. So, I’d be trading pump prices for higher electric bills and a new tax? That’s not a deal I’m eager to sign up for.
Third, I worry about my car becoming a target. It sounds dramatic, but radical domestic terrorists have already shown they’re willing to go after infrastructure—think power grids or pipelines. EVs rely on a fragile network of charging stations and electricity, and I don’t want to be stuck with a car that’s a sitting duck if something goes haywire. My gas car doesn’t need a functioning grid to keep running; it just needs a tank of fuel and a road.
Fourth, the charging infrastructure here is nowhere near ready. Sure, there are some stations popping up, but they’re few and far between—especially if you’re not in a trendy urban hub. I’ve driven past plenty of “coming soon” signs for chargers that still aren’t operational. And when they do work, good luck finding one that’s free when you need it. I’m not about to play musical chairs with my transportation.
Finally, I drive a lot during the day, and I can’t be bogged down worrying about battery life. Whether it’s commuting, running errands, or taking a spontaneous trip down the shore, my gas car gives me the freedom to go as far as I want without planning my life around a charge. Refueling takes five minutes at any station, not 30 minutes or more at a charger—if I can even find one. Range anxiety isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a real headache I don’t need.
Look, I’m not against EVs forever. Maybe in a decade, when the tech’s cheaper, the grid’s more reliable, and chargers are as common as gas stations, I’ll reconsider. But for now, living in New Jersey means sticking with what works. My gas-powered cars aren’t just a preference—they’re a practical choice. And until the state catches up to the hype, I’ll keep filling up my tank and hitting the road on my terms.
Finally, there’s this.
If I want to buy an EV, it’s going to be because I want to buy an EV, not because somebody who just bought a whole fleet of gas-guzzling SUVs for himself is telling me that I have to buy an EV.
Letter to the Editor
Rich S., Secaucus, NJ