It’s no secret: hybrid and electric vehicles are set to take over the automotive world. More manufacturers like Ford are making the switch and dedicating themselves to a fully electric future within the next several years. But did you ever wonder how electric vehicles got their start? The reality is that they’ve been around for a lot longer than you’d think.
Past, Present, and Future
Although the past 20+ years have seen a huge surge of electric vehicles, they actually came onto the almost 200 years ago. The early to mid-1800s were the scene of a huge boom in technology and development, and as people looked for new ways to travel conveniently, they saw an opportunity in the invention of the battery. There were several drawbacks, though. For example, batteries in the first electric vehicles were single-use and disposable, and their range was highly impractical. On top of that, early EV speeds topped out under 15 MPH. However, that didn’t stop inventors from trying. Rechargeable batteries came along, but even those could only make it 50 or so miles before requiring another charge.
Once the combustion engine was invented and saw mass distribution by the Ford Motor Company, electric vehicles fell by the wayside. Ford’s cars were affordable, practical, and convenient compared to their electric counterparts, and the combustion engine took over. The oil crisis of the 1970s made people look more critically at our fuel consumption, but most attempts at marketing EVs still failed. That is until the late 1990s when the Prius came onto the scene. Finally, electric vehicles became a possibility as drivers saw the convenience of a hybrid engine. Recent developments are happening quickly, with different automakers pledging an electric revolution to fight the climate crisis and reduce our dependence on fossil fuels.
Today, there are more options than many ever thought possible. There are traditional hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric vehicles all across the country, and car makers’ investments are paying off. Options range from affordable family vehicles like the Ford Escape Hybrid to capable trucks, including the Maverick and F-150 Lightning. Even businesses are getting in on it with the availability of the E-Transit Van, saving them money while reducing emissions. This year alone, Ford is adding more electric vehicles to its lineup with plans to go all-electric within the next few years. They’ve also invested billions in bringing EV battery production to the US, creating jobs while impacting the environment.
Find Your Ford EV at Benna Ford
Want to get a head start on the electric future? Find your next hybrid or electric vehicle at Benna Ford! New models are arriving, so keep an eye on our inventory and contact us if you see something you’re interested in.
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