Jeff GeerlingSep 4, 2025

I bought the cheapest used EV, and just posted a video going over my experience with my first EV.

*And* why I don't think an EV isn't the right option for most car owners in the US (at least not yet).

Video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hQQtFnLefqw

And a blog post, if you're more textually-inclined: https://www.jeffgeerling.com/blog/2025/i-bought-cheapest-ev-used-nissan-leaf

Show threadJeff GeerlingSep 4, 2025

"don't isn't" hehe oops!

But to explain a little more: EVs are substantially more expensive, require access to charging infrastructure that many don't have, and have extra complication where gas cars don't due to 100 years of gas infra investment.

That doesn't mean I don't think they're a great option for some people. Or that we shouldn't invest in EV infrastructure. Just that right now, like for our minivan, there's no EV equivalent that would fit our family's use case (for any price).

Show threaddeBaerSep 4, 2025
@geerlingguy The "charging infrastructure" is a wall plug or an extension lead. When charging at home, you normally don't need to quick charge with 32 A @ 400 V, a trickle charge is usually enough because the car is standing around over night anyway.
Show threadJeff GeerlingSep 4, 2025
@deBaer Many of my friends live in an apartment, condo, shared space, etc. where they don't have access to a parking spot near an outlet. And I wouldn't recommend charging an EV off a 100' extension cord!
Show threadDavid S

@geerlingguy @deBaer

In London in the UK we have mostly terraced houses and flats, but we also have lamppost chargers in some boroughs. Only 5-7kw but fine overnight.

Sep 4, 2025 at 10:43pmWeb
Show threadJeff GeerlingSep 4, 2025
@Pionir it'd be nice if we had more forward-thinking infrastructure here :(