The Arrival of Electric Vehicles at Patriot CDJR of McAlester

The age of electric and hybrid vehicles is here. Governments and manufacturers worldwide plan to end sales of new gas-only cars within the next decade. While we love the roar of an engine, it's time to embrace efficient and eco-friendly options. Electric cars aren't just a fad anymore. They're here to stay, and they're getting better every day.

As adoption grows, we aim to be your local EV experts. We've got a great selection of electric, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid vehicles. And if you want to learn more about owning one of these rides, check out our Research Hub beforehand for general car-buying tips.

As for this guide, it will explore the different types of electrified vehicles, reasons to go electric, charging details, and the EVs in our inventory. Let's get you road-ready!

With many new terms floating around, the world of vehicle electrification is a hard one to understand. All these acronyms might seem confusing at first, but we'll break it down for you. All you need to remember is that all these options run at least partially on electricity.

We'll decode the acronyms so you can focus on the drive.

Pure electric cars are the ultimate zero-emissions option. An EV uses a battery-powered electric motor instead of an internal combustion engine. With no engine, it has far fewer parts than a gas vehicle. You plug an EV into a charging station to recharge the battery. The lack of engine noise also makes EVs whisper-quiet. If you want an emissions-free daily driver, an EV is the way to go.

Hybrids are currently the most popular type of electrified car. A hybrid has both a gas engine and an electric motor. The battery recharges through regenerative braking instead of plugging in. This combination boosts efficiency, especially in stop-and-go traffic.

The gas engine handles sustained speeds while the electric motor aids acceleration and captures braking energy. 

Plug-in hybrids offer the best of both worlds. Like a hybrid, PHEVs have dual gas and electric powertrains. But you can also plug in a PHEV to recharge the battery. This gives you an EV-style electric range for local trips before the gas engine kicks in. PHEVs provide flexibility if you want electric driving but need a gas backup for longer hauls. 

Driving electric may seem like a major change if gas cars are all you know. But with instant torque, lower costs, incentives, less maintenance, and eco-friendly operation, an EV or hybrid is worth considering.

Who doesn't love a thrilling launch? Electric motors provide full torque instantly. Unlike gas engines requiring combustion, EVs have no lag when you stomp the pedal. Getting pushed back in your seat when you take off makes them a blast to drive!

A few years ago, EVs cost far more than equivalent gas models. While sticker prices are still higher, you'll save money long-term without gas station fill-ups. Electricity is the cheaper fuel. EV drivers can save 60% each year on fuel costs. That adds up fast!

Since electric vehicles benefit the environment, governments offer incentives for driving them. In the US, a federal tax credit cuts EV costs by up to $7,500. State and local incentives like carpool lane access add even more savings.

With fewer mechanical parts, EVs need little routine maintenance. No oil changes, engine air filters, spark plug replacements, or emission checks. Fewer components mean fewer things to break down. You'll spend less time and money on upkeep.

Here's the best reason to go electric: protecting the planet. EVs produce zero direct emissions, while hybrids emit far less than gas vehicles. Their quiet operation also reduces noise pollution. Choosing an electrified vehicle is choosing a greener future.

If you've never charged an electric vehicle, it seems mystifying. In reality, plugging in is simple! Here are the most common charger types for electric vehicles in McAlester, OK:

• 120V Charging: Plugging into a normal household outlet, 120V charging adds about 4 to 5 miles of range per hour of charging. It works in a pinch but is slow for regular use.
•  240V Charging: 240V charging requires installing a dedicated high-voltage circuit. But it adds 10 to 20 miles per charge hour, letting you fully recharge overnight. This is the most convenient home option.
•  DC Fast Charging: The fastest public charging stations are DC fast chargers, using 480 Volt systems. These can add 60 to 80 miles of range in just 5 to 15 minutes! They allow rapid charges on road trips.

Want to experience electric driving firsthand? We offer multiple plug-in hybrid and hybrid models at our dealership! Here is a preview:

We're always looking ahead at our Patriot dealership in McAlester, Oklahoma, and more electric models are coming soon! We'll have the latest options as they become available

The electric transition is underway. When you're ready to upgrade your ride, visit your local Patriot Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of McAlester, OK! Our EV specialists simplify the buying process. We'll explain available incentives and find the perfect electrified model for your lifestyle.

You can get pre-qualified online, and the finance team can also help you take advantage of the maximum savings. And you'll want to bring your new EV or hybrid to our high-tech service center for maintenance needs. Our technicians are trained to service electrified vehicles, unlike regular mechanics.

Every new and used Patriot Mac vehicle also comes backed by the Patriot Pledge. That includes lifetime powertrain coverage, one year of complementary maintenance, and 24/7 roadside assistance. Go electric with confidence – we'll support you for the long haul!