It’s tough to find a used electric car because they make up such a small percentage of passenger vehicles in the United States. Consumers who want an alternative fuel option will be able to find a hybrid model at a Used Car Dealer in Seattle WA. This type of car still accounts for less than 3 percent of passenger vehicles, but the number of these vehicles is rapidly rising.
A Brief History
Electric cars may seem like a relatively new product, but they actually were invented in the 1800s. All-electric automobiles run on battery power and must be plugged in to recharge. The somewhat limited traveling time makes them substantially less common than other types of vehicles.
Nevertheless, they once were quite a popular option. In 1900, more than one-third of vehicles were powered by electricity. Gas-powered automobiles accounted for only about 22 percent, with steam-powered motor vehicles being the biggest player.
Historical Advantages
Electric cars had some distinct advantages. They were quieter and didn’t have a smelly exhaust system. They did not require a manual crank to start them. Urban dwellers particularly liked these vehicles. They were very convenient for short trips.
The Impact of Henry Ford
When Henry Ford began mass production of the Model T, this was a major innovation in manufacturing methods. People now could buy a gas-powered car for about one-third of what the average electric model cost. The ability to travel greater distances was another primary factor in gas-powered vehicles becoming such a big attraction. When the electric ignition was invented, eliminating the bothersome hand crank, that ended another of the electric car’s advantages.
More Recent Years
Even during the gas shortages of the 1970s, manufacturers had trouble interesting consumers in electric cars. At the time, those cars could only travel about 40 miles before recharging and top speed was about 45 miles per hour. Today, gas and diesel models are by far the most popular choices at a Used Car Dealer in Seattle WA.
In the 21st Century, most all-electric automobiles can only run about 100 miles before recharging is necessary. This makes it clear why consumers tend to prefer hybrids they can buy at a dealership such as First National Fleet & Lease.
