Getting the lay of the land...

Start by looking at completed, eBay, EV sales for the models you have an interest. This will give you a 'fair market value.' Then setup an eBay alert when those cars come available. Then make sure you have a an approved, car loan from you banker.

Plot the completed sales, price vs. utility, and join a forum for your particular car. Ask for advice and wait for a 'sweet deal' to show up. Buy it; fly out to pick it up, and; drive it home.

GOOD LUCK!
Bob Wilson

 

That sounds strange since the price delta between those two options is huge.

Are you sure those charge stations close by are open to the public? I would base the buying decision on only having home charging available. The upcoming Bolt EV is the first BEV in my price range that fits that metric.

 

I am not an expert and the online experience has been frustrating and subject to change. What I found:

• Whole Foods - has public chargers but always call ahead to make sure there is access. The Huntsville one is OK but somewhat slow. More of a topper than a charger.
• New Shopping Mall - thinking EV owners are rich and will buy anything, there are free chargers at the local 'Bridge Street' development. But the nearest restaurant charges $2.50 for a glass of club soda. Still, these chargers have 'big ones' and can put a serious charge on in an hour or so.

I don't think we know enough to identify the definitive map. Google was going to do something but the project never materialized. I am starting to investigate the iPhone app, PlugShare but it is too soon to make a judgement call. I'm also not sure we really know the economics and durability of these chargers. It was one reason why I went with the BMW i3-REx, the security of having that gas engine to 'limp home' (at up to 75 mph.)

Bob Wilson

 

Other than eating, grocery, or hotels, public charging on private property like an engineering firm is rare. Don't count on these. Secondly, charging rates are typically higher than gas prices so that's another big reason I advise relying on home charging.

 

I've owned both and the CMax has much better ingress/egress. I also have a gen II and rate it in between those two. The CMax would be closest to your current FEH including ride height.

 

A used LEAF would be a good fit and they are close to dirt cheap. Look for those with the chademo fast charger as that will make longer trips easier. When using a pay station quick charging can be cheaper than the electricity at home. As the battery fills the charging rate slows so there's a balancing act between cost and time and the needed state of charge.

The Eastern Electric Vehicle Club ( Home ) is a good reference. You can submit your questions on the website and our members will inundate you with useful info.

 

i was at whole foods yesterday, there was a ford fiesta in one ev spot, and a honda crv in the other.

 

Put the parking enforcement number on your phone.

Bob Wilson

 

They probably can't do a thing for a public charging station on private property. (BTW, my daughter refers to Whole Foods as Whole Paycheck)

 

Yes but they have a nice $2 espresso in ceramic cuppa.

Bob Wilson

 

they have a good flatbread, some veggies, and their chick peas are cheaper than the supermarket. you have to know your prices.
my wife goes to trader joes, whole foods and the supermarket, they're all within ev distance, but only w/f has a charger.

 

Their food bars are interesting but I keep having to remind myself that my eyes are larger than my diet.

Bob Wilson