Over the last few years, talk of an “all electric future” for our global automotive industry has reached a fever pitch. What began as a pipe dream – a more sustainable take on traditional transit and beloved cars – has been brought to life by industry leaders who, one by one, loosened their grasp on legacy processes to embrace the potential of a battery-powered transformation. We now find ourselves in an era of rapid electric innovation, and according to Virta, research indicates that 6.4 million vehicles (EVs and PHEVs combined) sold globally by the end of 2021^. EVs aren’t just here – they’re here to stay. More importantly, they’re here to drive us forward.
Of course, change doesn’t happen overnight, and the widespread embrace of anything ‘new’ cannot be achieved without facing certain barriers to adoption. As Canadian consumer interest in EVs reaches record highs, there are still certain questions that frequently surface – Do driving habits have to change after making the switch to an EV? Is the EV charging infrastructure accessible and convenient across Canada? Is an EV a more cost-effective solution over time?
Eager to get into the passenger seat with a new EV driver, we sat down with Rachel, a proud owner of a Ford Mustang Mach-E living in Smithville, Ontario, who picked up her vehicle last summer.
Rachel revealed that she initially made the switch to an EV due to the potential of long-term cost-savings, and a longstanding passion for energy efficiency. “I do a lot of driving,” explained Rachel. “With the rising cost of gasoline, I was simply looking for an alternative solution.” Rachel also noted that she loved being an early adopter in the on-going EV movement. “Honestly, I love the fact that we were one of the first owners of the Mustang Mach-E – we get questions about it all the time, and I am always happy to answer them. I also own an electrical company and I am deeply passionate about living and promoting an energy-efficient lifestyle. My Mustang Mach-E is a great conversation starter
As for the performance of the Mustang Mach-E, Rachel notes that it is “so fun” to drive. When asked about her driving habits since making the switch, Rachel notes that not much has changed. “If anything, now I don’t feel so bad when I head out on longer trips during the day, knowing that it doesn’t cost me much at all! The one pedal driving is also a really nice feature,” ◊ she explained. “The biggest challenge was simply waiting for the vehicle to be ready for pick up!”
To charge her Mustang Mach-E overnight, Rachel relies on a Level 2 charger that she had installed in her garage. “With the amount of driving I do, it’s important that I’m ready for the day ahead, so getting the right charger for my needs was key,” she shared. “Of course, everyone is often worried about the convenience of charging an EV on the go, but there are tons of free community chargers available across Ontario and Canada if you’re ever in a pinch.”
From a charging standpoint, the 2022 Mustang Mach-E is a highly competitive option as, its estimated to go from a 10 per cent to 80 per cent charge in approximately 45 minutes while charging on a DC Fast Charging station (L3 charger) when equipped with an extended-range battery*. For home charging solutions, like Rachel’s, the Mustang Mach-E comes with the 32 Amp Ford Mobile Power Cord, which is compatible with a 120V or 240V outlet for faster charging. If you are looking to maximize your home charging speed, there’s also the available Ford Connected Charge Station. With the purchase of a new 2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E, drivers will receive two years of complimentary access to the BlueOval™ Charge Network**.
Finally, we asked Rachel if she would recommend an EV for everyone, after driving the Mustang Mach-E for over six months. “Absolutely, I would. Not only will I never buy another gas vehicle, but we plan to purchase the all-electric F-150 Lightning to replace our 2015 Ford Focus when the time comes!”
Disclaimers:
^ Source: “The Global Electric Vehicle Market Overview In 2022: Statistics & Forecasts.” Virta, https://www.virta.global/global-electric-vehicle-market#nine
* Charge time based on manufacturer tests. The charging rate decreases as battery reaches full capacity. Your results may vary based on peak charging times, battery state of charge, lithium ion battery age, and state of health.
** Complimentary 2-year trial begins with EV New Vehicle Limited Warranty start date. Customer will be billed for all fees including but not limited to fees for use of charging stations and any related parking fees.
◊ One-Pedal Drive is an extra driving aid. It does not replace the driver’s attention and judgement, or the need to apply the brakes. See owner’s manual for details and limitations.
