The Reality of Owning an Electric Vehicle in Arkansas

So you‘re interested in going electric, but you live in Arkansas. You‘ve likely heard conflicting accounts on whether owning an EV is feasible or affordable in a state lagging the national average for adoption. Well, I‘m here to give you the unvarnished truth as an electric vehicle owner and expert analyst focused on the Arkansas market.

While significant challenges exist today, from limited charging infrastructure to unfavorable state policies, the benefits of driving electric in Arkansas still outweigh the difficulties – especially when looking 5-10 years out. As more models become available and new stations get built via federal funding programs in coming years, you‘ll be glad you got in early as an EV pioneer.

Let me walk you through everything you need to know about the current costs, options, and outlook for EV ownership in the Natural State.

The Current State of EV Charging in Arkansas

Charging infrastructure remains the most pressing issue, with public stations concentrated in central and northwest regions of the state close to major highways and population centers like Little Rock, Fayetteville and Fort Smith.

Charging station data via DOE Alternative Fuels Data Center, October 2022

The Arkansas DOT also released a statewide EV infrastructure deployment plan this year outlining how they intend to utilize Arkansas‘ $54 million share of the $5 billion of NEVI formula funding to be disseminated over five years. Their goal is to build out charging sites at 50 mile intervals on interstate highways and ensure 95% of the state population lives within 30 miles round-trip of a public fast charging station by 2027.

So while options remain limited today if you plan longer trips beyond the major cities, expect to see accelerated infrastructure growth by mid-decade.

EV Ownership Costs in Arkansas

*Annual cost estimates include electricity, fees, incentives and 5 years of fuel savings against equivalent gas model. Data via EVAdoption and DOE eGallon comparisons.

Upfront sticker prices continue to drop, with capable electric sedans and small SUVs now available between $35,000-$50,000. You can also find used EVs for under $20,000 if willing to compromise on battery range and tech features. Home charging off-peak will cost around $0.10-0.13 per kWh based on current Arkansas electricity rates.

However, the state government applies additional fees to EV registrations – $200 more per year than a comparable gas vehicle. And Arkansas offers no incentives or tax credits to offset purchase costs, unlike leading states like California which offer up to $7,500 back.

Over 5-10 years though, the fuel and maintenance savings still outweigh the higher annual fees. Consumer Reports found total operational costs for a Nissan Leaf were $6,700 less over 200,000 miles compared to a gas Toyota Prius. So while state policies penalize EV owners today, you‘ll save money down the road if able to make the upfront investment on the right electric model.

Why Current EV Owners in Arkansas Are Still Satisfied

Make no mistake, driving electric in Arkansas requires higher tolerance for inconveniences compared to early adopters in other regions. But according to EV enthusiast forums and owner satisfaction surveys, most Arkansans who have taken the plunge are still happy with their decision.

85% of Arkansas EV drivers report being "delighted" or "pleased" with their purchase according to J.D. Power‘s 2022 U.S. Electric Vehicle Experience Ownership Study. The instant torque and smooth silent acceleration of electric motors continues to thrill. And not paying rising gas prices insulates owners from recent oil market volatility.

Home charging satisfies daily commute needs for drivers traveling less than 100 miles per day on average. Public networks handle longer trips for the 45% of Arkansas EV drivers who report traveling more than 200 miles at least a few times a year. Though securing charger access during peak travel periods remains a top frustration.

Many early adopters also enjoy assuming the role of EV ambassador – educating curious neighbors about their exotic vehicles, pointing other potential buyers to incentives and helping assuage range anxiety fears still common in their communities.

So while frustrations exist stemming primarily from external factors, the majority of EV owners feel they‘ve made the right move for the performance, environmental and long-term financial benefits.

Key Takeaways: EVs in Arkansas By 2030

Today‘s electric vehicle landscape in Arkansas clearly presents obstacles, from purchase costs to charging availability. But expectations look brighter for EV adoption rates by the end of this decade if infrastructure and technology continue improving at the current pace.

Here are my projections assuming trends hold:

• 20% of new car sales will be electric by 2030 (up from 2.5% in 2022)
• 300+ mile ranges will be standard for most models under $45k
• 90% of interstate highways and 50% of rural roads will have public charging sites
• Improved batteries will charge 80% in under 15 minutes
• State policies will gradually become more EV friendly

So while challenges today still discourage some potential EV buyers, sticking it out with electric truly pays off over the longer term – both financially and environmentally. Just ask one of the proud pioneers driving electric on Arkansas roads right now. If they can thrive at the start of the revolution, so too can you.

Hopefully I‘ve provided an honest yet constructive overview of what budgeting for and living with an EV is really like in Arkansas presently. If the vision ahead gives you inspiration rather than trepidation, then welcome aboard fellow rider on this road to a more sustainable future!

Let me know if any other questions come up in your decision process – happy to offer my firsthand expertise. Charge on!