Now Could Be the Perfect Time to Invest in an EV

A vast majority of Americans are experiencing the impacts of soaring inflation in their daily lives. And with record-high gas prices, many people are starting to think more broadly about their transportation options. 

The electric vehicle (EV) industry has a long way to go. Automakers must figure out how to reduce the environmental impact of lithium-ion batteries. More charging stations must be installed across the country, especially in non-metropolitan areas. And price tags for new EV models must come down.  

With that said, automakers are making strides and moving quickly toward an all-electric future. And if you can budget for it, investing in an EV can help you fight inflation and save you pain at the gas pump. Let’s discuss how different brands are rising to the challenge and touch on some of the electrified Toyota models stealing the show!

Brands Embracing an Electric Future   

Nearly every mainstream automaker is taking actionable steps towards electrifying their lineups, many of which have elaborate plans to be all-electric within the next 10 – 20 years. GMC recently released the Hummer EV truck and SUV, while other GM brands are soon to follow with their own EVs. 

The new Ford Mustang Mach-E has turned out to be a hit, and we can expect the same from the brand’s F-150 Lightning and E-Transit van coming this year. Kia, Hyundai, and Nissan already offer electric versions of their compact cars. Other prominent automakers to observe over the next few years include:

• Audi
• BMW
• Honda
• Lexus
• Mazda
• Mercedes-Benz
• Rivian
• Tesla
• Volkswagen
• Volvo

Current Toyota Hybrid Models  

It’s no secret that Toyota has long been a leader in the electrification movement. Here are a few hybrid models you can buy today to save money and the environment:

2022 Tundra i-FORCE MAX

The redesigned Toyota Tundra comes available with a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine and an electric motor. The hybrid pickup provides 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of torque, and it’s one of the best-looking trucks in its class. 

2022 RAV4 Hybrid

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid produces 219 horsepower and 41 MPG in the city. You can add sport-tuned suspension and styling with the hybrid-exclusive XSE grade. 

2022 Corolla Hybrid

Toyota has pulled no punches in the Corolla’s most recent design. It’s modern, tech-laden, and looks and drives like a much more expensive vehicle than it is. Opt for a hybrid sedan or hatchback and get 52 combined MPG. 

2022 Toyota Prius

The Prius was the first mainstream hybrid vehicle ever to hit the market. The 2022 versions offer the most tech, safety, capability, and style to date. 

The All-New Toyota bZ4X

Toyota is no stranger to hybrid cars, but the brand is poised to get back into the all-electric vehicle segment in the coming year. The 2023 bZ4X crossover showcases edgier styling than its gas-powered SUV siblings.

The bZ4X will be available at Toyota dealerships across the country (unlike the RAV4 EV). The crossover, co-developed with Subaru, offers a 252-mile driving range and a choice between all- and front-wheel-drive.

Toyota offers two grades for the 2023 bZ4X: XLE and Limited. The XLE starts at $43,215, while the Limited is $47,915. Both trims run dual motors and all-wheel drive or a single motor and front-wheel drive.

Performance and Efficiency    

The bZ4X comes standard with front-wheel drive and a single motor that yields 201 hp, while the all-wheel-drive version produces 215 horses. On-road comfort is where the crossover shines; it handles bumps and rough pavement easily, and its responsive steering helps drivers feel secure and confident.

The single-motor bZ4X uses a 63.4-kWh battery pack, while the dual-motor model runs on a 65.5-kWh pack. Depending on the grade, you can expect 242 – 252 miles on a charge with the front-wheel-drive version and 222 – 228 miles with all-wheel drive. Toyota has stated that drivers can charge their bZ4X battery 80 percent in under an hour. 

Comfort and Features   

The 2023 bZ4X has a spacious cabin to go with its stunning exterior. Standard features include a 12.3-inch central infotainment touchscreen, a seven-inch digital gauge display, navigation, wireless smartphone mirroring, and an optional heating element for the front passenger’s legs.

Toyota’s infotainment system is one of the best on the market and provides an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot. Drivers can choose between the standard six-speaker audio system or the nine-speaker JBL stereo. Further, the bZ4X offers a wealth of standard driver-assistance features, such as automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and pedestrian and cyclist detection.

Conclusion  

Like most drivers, you might think an EV could come in handy now. Evaluate your budget to see if purchasing an electric car is realistic, and remember that the initial investment can pay off big in the long run. We have an impressive inventory of electrified Toyota models, so connect with Mount Airy Toyota or come by our dealership today for a test drive!