Electric vehicles remain option as local drivers weigh choices
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ALPENA – Electric vehicles remain one of several options available to drivers in Northeast Michigan as they weigh choices between battery-powered models, hybrids and traditional gasoline or diesel powered vehicles.
At Cliff Anschuetz Chevrolet, sales consultant and digital retail director Steve Jakubcin said the dealership currently offers four electric models: the Bolt, Equinox EV, Blazer EV and Silverado EV. Of those, the Equinox EV and Blazer EV are in stock and ready for customers in the Alpena area.
"We offer 4 more EV's at Cliff Anschuetz. The Bolt, Equinox EV, Blazer EV and Silverado EV. We have Equinox EV and Blazer EV currently in stock," Jakubcin said.
Sales of electric vehicles in the region have moderated in recent years. Jakubcin noted that interest has slowed somewhat since the federal tax credit ended, though shoppers still inquire periodically.
"EV sales have slowed a bit since the Federal Tax credit was stopped. However, we still have people interested in asking about them from time to time," he said.
Prices for the electric models on the lot vary by vehicle. The Bolt remains well below $30,000, the Equinox EV is around $35,000, the Blazer EV is about $45,000 and the Silverado EV starts at $55,000 but is typically equipped in the $70,000 to $80,000 range, according to Jakubcin.
When comparing total cost of ownership, factors such as fuel or electricity expenses, maintenance needs and individual driving patterns come into play for Alpena-area drivers. Jakubcin said many prospective buyers focus on potential savings related to fuel costs and reduced maintenance requirements.
Customers who have looked at electric vehicles recently come from a range of backgrounds rather than any single demographic group.
"I don't think it's fair to stereotype the people we've had come in lately. I had a young gentleman looking for a first car. Another gentleman was looking for a family vehicle," Jakubcin said. "We had an older gentleman last week asking if the Silverado EV was self-driving and then a lady picked up her Equinox EV that was looking for something a bit smaller and was looking forward to saving gas mileage. All customers were interested in the gas savings--with gas being higher and found the less maintenance for EV's a bonus."
Common questions from local shoppers often center on driving range, performance in winter conditions and access to charging. Range remains a frequent topic of discussion, Jakubcin said, though modern vehicles include systems that alert drivers about charging needs and nearby stations.
"Obviously range anxiety is a concern but it is truly surprising how much the vehicles will notify you not only when you should charge but where a charger is located on your trip," he said. "We had a person visiting from downstate last week and I asked him what he averages on a recharge, and he said depending on what the provider is charging he's had it as cheap as $25 for a recharge and high as $50. Obviously, wintertime does affect range, but same with gas."
"The average person in Northern Michigan remote starts their car and often sees a reduction in gas mileage," Jakubcin added. "I do know of a few EV owners that appreciate the heavier vehicle during the wintertime and appreciate how it handles."
Jakubcin typically begins conversations with potential electric-vehicle buyers by asking about their planned charging arrangements and daily driving habits. Some customers express satisfaction at avoiding traditional fuel stops, he added.
"One of the first questions I ask a prospective EV customer is how do you plan on charging it? Then usually the next question I ask is what their plans for their vehicle (daily driving habits etc.) are. We've had several customers that take a lot of pride in not having to stop at the pump," Jakubcin said.
For drivers in the Alpena area, the decision involves weighing personal circumstances such as access to home or public charging, typical trip distances, weather conditions and overall ownership costs against the features of gasoline or diesel alternatives. Local dealerships continue to stock a mix of powertrains, allowing shoppers to compare options based on their own needs and preferences.