Letter: Why we should own electric vehiclesTo the Editors: In Wilton, an increasing number of citizens are starting to buy electric cars as their primary vehicle. This is partly due to the increase in electric charging stations in Wilton and the hundreds within a 30-mile radius. In addition, the efforts of electric car companies to offer their products at a more affordable price has helped encourage the switch. Wiltonians should make the switch from a gas to electric vehicle because they will save money, significantly reduce their carbon footprint, and decrease the time commitment related to gas cars. Although some electric cars are more expensive than traditional gas-run cars, the money saved without gas costs makes them cheaper over time. According to fleetcarma.com, “There is no gas to buy, no oil changes, no smog tests, and fewer moving parts to break or wear out.” Gasoline motors cost much more to maintain due to spark plugs, timing belts, and required routine maintenance. “Reducedmaintenance costs can save an EV owner over $1,500 over the life of the vehicle, compared to a gasoline-powered version of their vehicle” (ucsusa.org). These savings on maintenance costs combine for a more affordable purchase. Owning an electric vehicle bypasses the impacts of unpredictable fluctuations in oil prices. “Our reliance on petroleum makes us vulnerable to price spikes and supply disruptions”(energy.gov). This illustrates the risk of owning a gas-powered vehicle in an unstable oil market controlled by supply and demand. It’s often overlooked how beneficial electric vehicles are to the environment. Electric cars better the quality of the air we breathe everyday. By replacing motor vehicles with electric vehicles, we can reduce air pollution for everyone living in Wilton and in the surrounding areas. In addition, “EVs can also reduce the emissions that contribute to climate change and smog, improving public health and reducing ecological damage” (energy.gov). By reducing their carbon footprint, citizens will help slow the effectsof climate change and preserve the atmosphere’s ozone layer. When combining an electric vehicle with forms of renewable energy, emissions are further cut down. Installing a solar panel on the top of your house could fuel the charge of your EV and reduce the costs of electric bills. A common misconception about electric cars is that they are more difficult to “refuel” because access to nearby charging stations is lacking. However, most EV owners do most of their charging at home. “Because residential charging is convenient and inexpensive, most plug-in electric vehicle drivers do more than 80% of their charging at home” (energy.gov). This makes using an electric vehicle easier and saves a significant amount of time. Also, wireless charging is making a foray into the electric car industry, which is even more time efficient. Electric cars are the future of transportation, and citizens of Wilton should start familiarizing themselves with the benefits of EVs. As more people fully understand their financial and environmental superiority, citizens will abandon gas run vehicles for the future of transportation: electric vehicles. Wilton, Nov. 29