Electric cars and their advantages versus their disadvantages are a growing debate. In a country that relies so heavily on petroleum products and convenience, it’s hard to convince people that there are alternatives to the way we use transportation.

For example, do we really travel 75 to 80 miles per hour? If you had a car that ran on electricity that you converted from a gas car yourself, you would still get where you were going at a slightly slower speed, maybe 50 mph.

The trade-offs of an electric car are, slightly slower speed but, in turn, no emissions, fewer moving parts to wear out, no muffler and no fuel tank. It would also have a limited range of about 100 miles between charges. I really don’t need to drive more than 100 miles a day unless I’m going out of state and then I can always rent a car.

There is also the added benefit of not having to do a tune up or a new muffler. One drawback is the cost of a new electric because it is at least in the twelve thousand dollar range. But, if you’re a little handy, you can convert a car with used parts for less than a thousand dollars.

Don’t forget the fuel cost savings. Electricity is a cheaper fuel than gas, so you’ll drive miles for pennies instead of dollars. This alone would offset the expense of renting a car for longer trips on occasion.