The newest electric vehicle snaps at the heels of the Tesla
By Maria Fotopoulos
You’d think California’s gas prices spiking to $5 a gallon would put electric vehicles on new car buyers’ consideration list, but EV sales haven’t met expectations. Although range anxiety—the fear that the vehicle won’t get as far on a charge as the driver needs—discourages some from looking at zero-emission cars, the average U.S. driver travels just 29 miles a day, and the driving range of EVs comfortably fits the majority of motorists.
Clearly the auto industry has more consumer education to do, but it’s not discouraging new entries. One of the newest is the four-door, five-passenger Coda compact sedan, which has a low-end driving range of 88 miles—enough for even most L.A. commutes—and 133 miles for the “hyper miler” whose driving style maximizes every volt.
The Calif.-based automaker focused on developing a superior battery system that delivers good range, works in all climates, has long life expectancy and can be charged quickly. Coda is so proud of the results that they back the battery with a 10-year, 100,000 mile warranty.
Overcoming the perception that EVs aren’t “real cars” is another hurdle, but a day spent with Coda proves it exceedingly road worthy. There was no hesitation in accelerating for freeway driving, and it had battery power to spare after a full day of driving all over town.
Satisfying in design, with the back end its best feature, nothing about Coda’s look screams, “I’m an EV.” Inside are
many standard features and a stylish cabin. Seating options are leather or 42 percent recycled fabric.
After taking advantage of available incentives and rebates, Coda costs a reasonably competitive $27,250, and the company expects an owner to come out $2,500 ahead after five years of ownership versus comparable hybrid or gasoline-powered vehicles.
Since buying an EV means never having to go to a gas station, it seems ultimately more and more EVs will populate our roads.
Taking advantage of various free charging stations to supplement home charging, one California driver was pumped after putting the first 5,000 miles on his Coda. His total cost for charging: $7.
100% Electric Vehicles…
|
|
Driving Range on a Full Charge |
Price1 |
Top Speed |
Seating |
| CODA |
88 miles |
$38,145 |
85 mph |
5 |
| Mitsubishi i-MiEV |
62 miles |
$29,975 |
81 mph |
4 |
| Nissan LEAF |
73 miles |
$36,050 |
90 mph |
5 |
| Tesla Model S |
160 miles2 |
$59,350 |
110 mph |
5 |
1 MSRP + Destination & Handling. Does not include available federal tax incentive or other available credits and incentives.
2 Based on 55 mph.
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