In a region like Southern California, where sunshine is abundant and electricity rates are among the highest in the country, solar and EVs can make a powerful pairing, both environmentally and financially.

Home solar panels don’t charge an electric vehicle directly; instead, the solar system feeds electricity into the home’s electrical panel. That energy can power household appliances, charge a vehicle or be exported to the grid. If a homeowner charges an EV during the day while solar panels are producing electricity, most of the energy comes directly from the sun. If they charge at night, they’re likely drawing from the grid, unless the home also has a battery backup system.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the average EV uses about 30 kilowatt-hours (kWh) to travel 100 miles. If a driver puts 1,000 miles on their EV per month, they’d need about 300 kWh of electricity on top of their regular household usage. For many, that’s a 25% to 40% increase in monthly electricity demand.

Sizing a solar system for EV charging

Most Southern California homes that go solar install systems between 6 and 10 kilowatts (kW), according to data from the California Energy Commission. But for households with one or more EVs, it’s common to go bigger — 10 to 12 kW or more — to ensure enough capacity to cover both home and transportation needs.

The exact number of panels needed depends on several factors, including driving habits, available roof space and local solar production potential.  According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), a 10-kW system in Los Angeles can generate roughly 15,000 kWh per year — enough to cover the average home’s energy use and an EV’s charging needs.

What it costs

The average cost to install solar in Southern California is about $2.75 to $3.25 per watt, depending on the installer and equipment. That puts a 10-kW system in the ballpark of $27,500 to $32,500 before incentives.

Thanks to the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), homeowners can claim 30% of their total system cost as a tax credit, reducing the net price by several thousand dollars. Additional rebates may be available through local utilities, including the Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) for battery storage.

Installing a Level 2 EV charger typically adds another $1,000 to $2,000, including labor and permitting. Many Southern California utilities, such as Southern California Edison and San Diego Gas & Electric, offer rebates for residential EV chargers — usually between $250 and $500. More info here.

Return on investment

With utility rates rising across the state, the ROI for solar can be relatively quick, especially when it offsets EV charging. According to SolarReviews, Southern California homeowners can recoup their investment in as little as 6 to 9 years, depending on system size, energy use and utility rates. After that, the electricity is essentially free for the life of the system, which typically lasts 25 years or more.

Drivers who rely heavily on charging at home may save even more. For comparison, 1,000 miles of monthly EV driving might cost $150 or more in electricity if charged entirely from the grid, depending on time-of-use rates and charging habits. Charging with solar can reduce that cost to near zero.

To make the most of solar for EV charging, homeowners need to consider when and how they charge. Charging during the day maximizes use of solar generation. Charging at night could mean pulling from the grid unless a battery is installed to store daytime solar for later use.

Battery systems like the Tesla Powerwall or Enphase IQ Battery can add $10,000 or more to a project but may be worthwhile for households that want backup power or better time-of-use management.

For homeowners considering the switch to solar, it’s worth speaking with a licensed solar installer who can provide a detailed estimate based on actual usage and available incentives. Tools like the California Solar Consumer Protection Guide can help compare options and get multiple quotes.

The news and editorial staffs of Southern California News Group and The San Diego Union-Tribune had no role in this post’s preparation.

You’ve shared with family and friends that you are expecting — what an exciting time! As you prepare for this special time, it is essential to consider the importance of selecting a hospital that aligns with the compassion and clinical outcomes you and your family deserve. Here are some questions to consider:

• Does your hospital have the resources and providers to support your ideal birthing experience?
• Is the hospital close to your home, ensuring you can reach it without delay when the time comes?
• Are there teams and systems in place to offer support beyond your health care provider, such as a maternity concierge, 24/7 nurse advice phone line, and lactation consultants?
• Does the hospital have the capacity for high-risk pregnancies, including at least a Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) to address emergencies?
• Is the hospital equipped with an Obstetric Emergency Department (OB ED) to safeguard yours and your baby’s health throughout your pregnancy and postpartum period?

These are important questions you and your partner should ask as you prepare to welcome your newest family member. Choosing the right healthcare provider for this journey is essential. Various types of obstetric healthcare providers can meet your needs, including an OB-GYN or a certified nurse midwife.

Within MemorialCare, both OB-GYNs and certified nurse midwives are available to our expecting patients. OB-GYNs are medical doctors trained to provide women with both medical and surgical care. After completing medical school, they undergo four years of residency training focusing on reproduction, pregnancy, and female medical and surgical issues. They are certified by the American Board of Obstetrics & Gynecology.

Certified nurse midwives are educated in two fields: midwifery and nursing. To achieve the title of certified nurse midwife, they must earn graduate degrees in nursing, complete an accredited midwifery education program, and pass a national certification exam administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board. Due to their specialized training, certified nurse midwives are considered advanced practice registered nurses who provide care during prenatal visits, active labor, birth, and postpartum.

MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center has been at the forefront of maternity care for more than
35 years and were the first to open Labor, Delivery, Recovery, and Postpartum (LDRP) suites in Orange County. Saddleback Medical Center consistently re-invests in the community to bring leading quality initiatives and comfort amenities to new moms. Today, these suites are designed with the health and bonding benefits of keeping mom and baby together while ensuring the mother’s comfort needs are met. In addition, the LDRP suites feature large windows for natural light, Bluetooth speakers, lavender-scented towels, freshly baked cookies, and a celebration brunch. They also include peanut balls and rocking chairs for mobility during labor, with six suites equipped with soaking tubs.

Additionally, The Women’s Hospital at Saddleback Medical Center continuously focuses on quality improvement. For eight years running, The Women’s Hospital has been named a Center of Excellence by the Society of Obstetric Anesthesia and Perinatology. The team also continually implements initiatives to reduce infection rates and support vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC), empowering women with safe, evidence-based childbirth options. Saddleback Medical Center maintains a 23.2% cesarean birth for first-time, low-risk mothers – lower than national and state targets, and many local hospitals.

Another unique benefit I shared with my patients about The Women’s Hospital is the maternity concierge service, available to every patient who delivers at Saddleback Medical Center – something not offered at any other hospital in Orange County. The maternity concierge helps guide you in determining which provider is right for you, whether it be a midwife or OB-GYN, helps schedule tours of The Women’s Hospital, and answers any questions you may have, including those on insurance and billing.

In addition, Saddleback Medical Center has an on-site level III NICU equipped to support premature and fragile infants with a team of neonatologists, specialized NICU nurses, and respiratory therapists available 24/7. While nobody wants to plan for a pregnancy complication, should the need arise, Saddleback Medical Center has a 24/7 OB ED to care for patients who are 16 weeks pregnant and up to six weeks postpartum cared for by specialized nurses and board-certified OB hospitalists.

Future moms, it’s important for you to know that you’re in control of your birth experience. You will have a million decisions to make as a parent, starting with the one that matters most: choosing a provider aligned with your preferred hospital to ensure the best birth experience for you and your family.

Want to learn more? Visit memorialcare.org/SMCBaby or call at (949) 837-4500.

The Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) is the global standard for how chargers talk to networks, but it doesn’t include the actual software needed to make chargers work. Each manufacturer has had to write its own version, a slow and expensive process.

OpenOCPP changes all that, ChargeLab officials say. The software runs on everything from basic microcontrollers found in budget devices to powerful computer systems inside high-end chargers. It also comes with advanced security features already included, so manufacturers don’t have to worry about building those protections themselves.

“OpenOCPP transforms OCPP adoption for EV charger manufacturers from an 18–24 month integration challenge to a weeks-long sprint,” said Ehsan Mokthari, ChargeLab’s chief technology officer.

The software is designed to be lightweight and efficient, able to run on hardware with very little memory, Mokthari said. It also supports the latest version of the OCPP standard and because it’s open-source, wany company can use it for free and suggest improvements.

ChargeLab is a member of the Open Charge Alliance, the organization that oversees the OCPP standard.

One of the first companies to try OpenOCPP is FractalEV, a maker of Level 2 chargers for electric vehicles. FractalEV has used OpenOCPP while installing chargers across North America, working with more than 20 different network providers.

Chris Mendes, founder of FractalEV, said that ChargeLab’s software helped his company bring its first charger to market much faster. Using OpenOCPP meant FractalEV could focus on adding unique features like easy installation tools and a touchscreen display, rather than spending months building the basic communication software.

ChargeLab says over 4,000 chargers are already running on OpenOCPP through early manufacturer programs, including units deployed with major corporate customers that have strict cybersecurity demands.

The news and editorial staffs of Southern California News Group and The San Diego Union-Tribune had no role in this post’s preparation.

While trying to navigate the crisis, emergency responders and city staff experienced multiple cellular dead zones throughout the 40-acre Crown Valley Park facility. When people needed to connect with loved ones, access emergency information, or coordinate response efforts, the existing infrastructure simply wasn’t adequate. The city recognized the need for a better solution to emergency situations of all kinds.

The solution—a comprehensive private network infrastructure

After extensive research into private network options, the city turned toward Cox Communications, a longtime service provider in the community. Working closely with a Cox Business executive, they designed a comprehensive connectivity solution tailored to the unique needs of Laguna Niguel—marking Cox’s first major public-private infrastructure collaboration with the city, building on nearly three decades of service and partnerships with local nonprofit organizations.

The 2023 installation of a 500-megabit internet circuit and 16 strategically placed access points created seamless Wi-Fi coverage across the community center, amphitheater, on-site YMCA, playgrounds, picnic areas, aquatics facility, and multi-purpose fields. What makes this partnership particularly innovative is how it serves dual purposes. Phase two will be completed later to include coverage for the botanical garden, soccer fields, and additional areas.

Beyond emergency response is community enhancement

While the primary goal was emergency preparedness, the private network is enhancing daily life of community members and visitors who enjoy free, secure Wi-Fi access throughout the park.

The network’s capabilities are on display and being experienced by attendees at Laguna Niguel’s annual Summer Concert Series, which began on June 6 and runs every two weeks through August 15, demonstrating that emergency infrastructure is not only for emergencies but can support community programming. Now city leaders feel increasingly confident that during an evacuation, first responders, evacuees, and staff will be able to access the necessary resources to navigate whatever comes.

“This partnership with the City of Laguna Niguel demonstrates how private network solutions can transform both emergency preparedness and daily community life,” said Jodi Duva Cox Business Vice President for California. “Whether providing affordable internet access to families or creating robust infrastructure that serves the larger population, we’re helping communities stay connected when it matters most while enhancing their everyday experiences.”

Staying ahead of the next emergency

The solution to the service gaps Laguna Niguel recognized following the Coastal Fire shows how forward-thinking municipalities can leverage private network technology to address both emergency preparedness and community enhancement simultaneously. By partnering with experienced providers like Cox Business, cities can create robust, scalable infrastructure that serves residents in both times of crisis and everyday life. Hopefully most often for the latter.

The news and editorial staffs of Southern California News Group and The San Diego Union-Tribune had no role in this post’s preparation.

Battery performance and range can dip

One of the first things new EV owners might notice during a heat wave is a dip in driving range. High temperatures force a car’s battery management system to work harder to keep the pack cool, which drains energy that would otherwise power the car. According to studies by AAA and battery research groups, EV range can decrease by 15% or more on very hot days. Hybrids don’t rely solely on their batteries, but they can still see reduced efficiency if heat causes the internal combustion engine to run more often.

To offset the hit to range, it helps to park in shaded areas or garages whenever possible, as this keeps the battery cooler before the next drive. Using pre-conditioning — which allows drivers to cool the cabin while the vehicle is still plugged in — can also minimize energy use from the battery once on the road.

Charging takes longer — and can degrade batteries faster

In hot conditions, many EVs slow charging speeds automatically to avoid overheating the battery. This is particularly noticeable at DC fast chargers, where heat can limit charge rates significantly. Some newer models have advanced thermal management that helps, but drivers should plan for longer charging times during extreme heat.

Long-term exposure to high temperatures can accelerate battery degradation, shortening the overall lifespan of the pack. Charging to 100% in hot weather or leaving the car fully charged in the sun for hours can make this worse. Experts recommend charging to 80% during heat waves if the extra range isn’t necessary, which reduces battery stress.

Keep an eye on tire pressure and fluids

Whether driving an EV, a plug-in hybrid or a traditional hybrid, tire pressure is a critical yet often overlooked factor in hot weather. Tires expand when heated, which can lead to overinflation and uneven wear. Checking tire pressure regularly — ideally when tires are cold — helps maintain proper traction and extends tire life.

Hybrids with internal combustion engines still need engine oil and coolant checked and changed according to manufacturer schedules. While pure EVs don’t have engine oil, many use coolant for the battery and power electronics; low coolant levels can cause overheating issues. A quick look under the hood or a scheduled service appointment before peak summer can prevent bigger problems.

Use climate control wisely

Blasting the air conditioning keeps drivers comfortable but eats into range fast. Setting the cabin temperature a few degrees higher than usual and using the car’s eco or energy-saving modes can reduce power draw. Many EVs allow drivers to schedule cabin pre-conditioning while the car is plugged in at home, which cools the interior without draining the battery during the drive.

Plan ahead on long trips

Drivers should map out charging stops with extra time and consider alternative routes in case stations are crowded or offline. Heat waves can lead to power outages that affect charging availability. Apps like PlugShare or A Better Routeplanner help find real-time charger status and plan accordingly.

Be mindful of regenerative braking

Regenerative braking systems capture energy normally lost during slowing and feed it back to the battery, but high heat can affect how aggressive regen feels. Some cars reduce regen automatically to protect the battery when it’s hot, which can make the vehicle coast farther than usual. Drivers new to EVs should practice in an empty lot or quiet street to get a feel for regen behavior in summer conditions.

EVs and hybrids are well-suited for modern roads even in scorching temperatures, but a bit of planning and awareness goes a long way. By parking smart, charging carefully, maintaining tires and fluids, and adjusting driving habits, owners can keep their vehicles in peak condition all summer long.

The news and editorial staffs of Southern California News Group and The San Diego Union-Tribune had no role in this post’s preparation.

Surgical weight loss is often misunderstood. Despite being a safe and effective treatment for obesity, many people are deterred by long-standing myths and misconceptions. As a bariatric surgeon at the Surgical Weight Loss Center at Orange Coast Medical Center, I see firsthand how these myths can prevent individuals from seeking care that could dramatically improve their health and quality of life.

One of the most common misconceptions is that weight loss surgery is inherently dangerous. In reality, modern bariatric procedures—such as gastric sleeve and gastric bypass—are performed using minimally invasive techniques. These advances have greatly improved outcomes and reduced risks. Today, the safety of bariatric surgery is on par with other routine procedures like gallbladder removal.

Another myth is that people should be able to lose weight through diet and exercise alone. While healthy lifestyle changes are always encouraged and remain an essential part of any weight management plan, they are often not enough for individuals with severe obesity. Obesity is a complex, chronic disease influenced by genetic, hormonal, behavioral, and environmental factors. For many, surgery offers a medically supported and sustainable path forward when other methods have failed.

Weight loss surgery is not a shortcut. It is a powerful tool that supports long-term metabolic change, helping individuals lose excess weight and, more importantly, resolve or reduce obesity-related conditions such as Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, joint pain and potential cardiac or stroke events. Numerous studies show that bariatric surgery not only improves quality of life but also extends life expectancy.

Another common concern regarding weight gain after surgery is often discussed. Although long-term success necessitates a sustained commitment to lifestyle modifications, most patients achieve significant weight loss over the years following surgery, particularly with continuous medical and emotional support.

At MemorialCare’s Surgical Weight Loss Center, we offer comprehensive care that includes nutrition counseling, support groups, and long-term follow-up to assist patients in maintaining their progress.

Concerns about scars and recovery time are mostly outdated. With minimally invasive techniques, surgeries use only a few small incisions. Patients typically start walking the same day and return to many normal activities within one to two weeks.

It also is essential to recognize that weight loss surgery is not exclusively for individuals who are “extremely overweight.” Suitable candidates may include those with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or individuals with a BMI of 35 or more who also have associated health conditions. The primary objective is not solely to reduce weight but to enhance overall health and help patients regain control of their lives.

Ultimately, weight loss surgery is fundamentally focused on overall health rather than appearance. Successful patients frequently reduce or discontinue medications, gain energy, and become more active in their daily lives. Many express that they feel as though they have reclaimed their lives.

Additionally, pre-surgery preparation and post-surgery care are crucial elements in the journey to successful weight loss. Pre-surgery requirements often include nutritional assessments, psychological evaluations, and sometimes supervised weight loss programs. Post-surgery care encompasses a well-balanced diet plan, regular physical activity, and ongoing support from healthcare providers to ensure long-term success.

For individuals considering weight loss surgery, it is important to have realistic expectations and understand the potential risks involved. Consulting with Orange Coast Medical Center’s experienced weight loss surgeons can provide valuable insights into what the surgical process entails and how to manage life after surgery effectively.

If you’re struggling with obesity and related health issues, I encourage you to speak with your physician to have a candid conversation about weight management. For those seeking weight loss surgery, the Surgical Weight Loss Center at Orange Coast Medical Center offers a comprehensive program to help. From your first visit to the bariatric surgeon’s office, you will feel supported. Our care team will help get to root of the issues you are facing. Together, we can determine if surgical weight loss is the right option for you. To learn more visit our website or call 714-378-7622.

The news and editorial staffs of the Orange County Register had no role in this post’s preparation.

Starting each day with a ‘full tank’

For many drivers who are thinking about making the shift to an electric vehicle (EV), range anxiety — the fear of running out of battery power before they can recharge — is a big sticking point. But experts and EV owners say that fear is based more on myth than reality.

One reason most EV owners don’t experience range anxiety is the convenience of home charging, which lets drivers start each day with a “full tank” (i.e. a fully charged battery.) In the U.S. about 83% of EV charging takes place at home, according to the International Energy Agency. For anyone with a garage or dedicated parking spot, plugging in is as simple as charging a phone. With a Level 2 home charger, most EVs can be fully charged overnight.

“When you drive electric you wake up every day with your vehicle charged and ready to go,” said Elaine Borseth, immediate past president of the Electrical Vehicle Association (EVA), a national group that educates and advocates for the rapid adoption of EVs. “You don’t have to go to a gas station to fill up and stand there with all the fumes. You don’t have to go in for oil changes or smog checks. When it comes to convenience, it’s a no-brainer.”

Modern EVs can also go farther on a single charge, with many averaging 250 to 300 miles or more. For example, the 2025 Niro EV subcompact crossover has an EPA-estimated range of up to 253 miles. The seven-passenger 2025 EV9’s EPA-estimated range is 304 miles and the 2025 EV6’s estimated range is 319 miles. The average American drives fewer than 40 miles per day, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation.

“When people really examine their driving habits, they realize they’re not even going to use up one charge in a week,” Borseth said. “There’s just no reason for range anxiety any longer.”

Changes in the EV landscape

Today’s EVs can go further, charge faster and help drivers manage energy more efficiently than ever before. Combine that with a dramatically expanded public charging network and the convenience of home charging, and the reasons behind range anxiety all but evaporate.

“Range anxiety was a more valid concern 10 years ago — the charging infrastructure wasn’t as robust and EVs with significant range weren’t something everyday consumers could afford,” said Kate Kruk, partnership and engagement director at Lynkwell, a clean energy technology company based in New York. “But nowadays the narrative has changed, the vehicles have changed and the infrastructure has changed. Range anxiety is a thing of the past.”

Kruk, who drives a 2023 Kia EV6, said she takes her car everywhere, including on trips across New York state and the East Coast, and has never had a problem running out of battery life before she can recharge.

“I’m a busy woman with work, a family and plenty of extracurriculars and I don’t have to worry about whether I have enough range to get where I need to go,” said Kruk. “I love my EV6.”

In fact, range anxiety is a bigger concern in people who don’t yet own an EV, according to a recent study by Recurrent, an EV battery data and analytics platform. Once consumers buy an EV and adapt to it, range anxiety drops significantly. Nearly 60% of EV owners say they never experience it at all, the study found.

Electric performance that thrives in traffic

EVs also have a built-in advantage that helps extend range: they perform better in stop-and-go traffic than on the open road.

Unlike gas-powered cars that burn fuel inefficiently at low speeds or while idling, EVs use regenerative braking to recapture energy each time the car slows down. This process sends power back into the battery, helping stretch available range.

Kia electric vehicles have multi-level regenerative braking systems that give drivers the ability to adjust how aggressively the car recaptures energy. Drivers can select a high setting and an “i-PEDAL” mode that allows for one-pedal driving—where lifting off the accelerator slows the car significantly, often without touching the brake pedal.

One-pedal driving can make urban and stop-and-go driving feel more intuitive and can also help city drivers gain back several miles of range during their commutes.

A growing network of chargers

When EV drivers do need to charge away from home, the expansion of national charging networks and the growing presence of DC fast chargers at grocery stores, highway stops and shopping centers have made it easier and more accessible.

There are now more than 192,000 publicly available charging ports in the U.S., according to the U.S. Department of Transportation, with roughly 1,000 more being added each week. Apps like PlugShare and A Better Route Planner help point drivers to the nearest available chargers.

This year, Kia EV owners will gain access to over 21,500 Tesla Superchargers, nearly doubling the number of accessible DC fast chargers to over 40,000 nationwide. The 2025 EV6 and 2026 EV9 come equipped with standard NACS ports, while Kia’s other EVs can plug in using an NACS adapter.

The speed of public charging has also been a game changer. For instance, on a DC fast charger, the 2025 EV9 can go from 10 to 80% in 24 minutes and the 2025 EV6 can charge from 10 to 80% in 20 minutes. On road trips that kind of turnaround works perfectly.

“When I need to charge after hours of driving, (my EV6) prompts me and gives me ideas about where to go,” said Kruk. “The faster charging capability allows me to get back on the highway in just about the time it takes to use the facilities, stretch my legs, grab a snack and get back to it.”

Kia has also baked in smart features to reduce battery wear and simplify charging habits. Drivers can set limits to keep their daily charges between 20% and 80%, which helps maintain battery health over the long term.

Getting up to speed on the modern-day reality of actual EV usage and charging habits proves to be the antidote to overcoming the ever-fading yet persistent myth of range anxiety.

To learn more about the range and capabilities of Kia electric vehicles, visit kia.com/us/en/ev.

The editorial departments of Southern California News Group and The San Diego Union-Tribune had no role in this article’s preparation.

Here’s a guide to 20 essential EV terms every electric driver should know. Whether you’re just browsing or already behind the wheel, this glossary will help you make sense of the road ahead.

1. EV (Electric Vehicle)A vehicle powered entirely or partially by electricity instead of gasoline.

2. BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle)A fully electric vehicle powered only by a battery—no gas engine at all. Common examples include the Kia EV6, Tesla Model 3 and Nissan Leaf.

3. HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle)A hybrid uses both a gas engine and an electric motor, but it doesn’t plug in. The battery charges through regenerative braking and the engine.

4. PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle)A hybrid with a larger battery that can be charged by plugging in. It can drive short distances on electric power alone before switching to gas.

5. kWh (Kilowatt-hour)The unit of measurement for battery capacity—essentially your EV’s “fuel tank” size. A larger number means more stored energy and usually a longer range.

6. kW (Kilowatt)A unit of power. Used to describe how fast a charger can deliver energy to your EV. More kilowatts = faster charging.

7. Level 1 chargerA standard wall outlet (120 volts). It’s the slowest way to charge—typically 3–5 miles of range per hour—but convenient for overnight charging.

8. Level 2 chargerA 240-volt charger, like what you’d use for a dryer or oven. It’s the most common home and public charging option, adding 20–40 miles of range per hour.

9. DC Fast ChargerAlso called Level 3 charging. These high-powered stations can deliver 80% charge in 20–40 minutes, depending on the car and charger.

10. CHAdeMOA type of DC fast charging connector, mostly used by older Nissan models. It’s being phased out in favor of newer standards like CCS and Tesla’s NACS.

11. CCS (Combined Charging System)The most common fast-charging connector in North America for non-Tesla EVs.

12. NACS (North American Charging Standard)Tesla’s fast-charging connector, now being adopted by other automakers. It’s compact, easy to use, and compatible with the Supercharger network.

13. Regenerative braking (regen)A system that recaptures energy when you slow down and sends it back into the battery. It helps extend range and reduces brake wear.

14. MPGe (Miles Per Gallon Equivalent)A measure of how far an EV can travel on the energy equivalent of one gallon of gas. It helps compare energy efficiency between EVs and traditional cars.

15. RangeThe distance an EV can travel on a full charge. Most new models offer 200 to 300+ miles of range.

16. Range anxietyThe fear of running out of battery before reaching a charger. It’s becoming less common as EV ranges increase and charging networks expand.

17. State of charge (SOC)The battery’s current charge level, usually shown as a percentage—similar to your phone’s battery indicator.

18. Over-the-air (OTA) updatesWireless software updates that improve features, fix bugs, or add new capabilities to your EV—just like updating your smartphone.

19. One-pedal drivingA driving mode where lifting off the accelerator slows the car down using regenerative braking. It often means you rarely need to use the brake pedal.

20. Charging curveDescribes how charging speed changes during a session. Most EVs charge fastest from 10% to 80%, then slow down to protect the battery.

EVs may sound technical at first, but once you understand the basic terms, it all starts to click. Whether you’re choosing between a BEV or PHEV, looking for a Level 2 charger, or figuring out how MPGe works, knowing the language helps you make more informed decisions—and feel more confident behind the wheel.

The news and editorial staffs of Southern California News Group and The San Diego Union-Tribune had no role in this post’s preparation.

But while EVs skip many of the usual maintenance headaches, they still need a little care—especially when it comes to tires, brakes, and the parts that support a smooth ride. Understanding how electric vehicles are different can help you stay ahead of wear and tear and keep your car performing at its best.

EVs are heavier—and that can affect your tires

Electric vehicles carry large battery packs, and that adds weight. That extra heft puts more pressure on your tires, which can lead to faster wear compared to traditional gas-powered cars.

Many EV drivers find that their tires need replacing a bit sooner than expected—sometimes as early as 25,000 to 30,000 miles, depending on driving habits. And because EVs deliver instant torque (meaning they accelerate quickly and quietly), that added power can also contribute to extra tire wear over time.

EV-specific tires are designed for the job

While it’s technically possible to put regular tires on an electric car, most EVs are equipped with special low-rolling-resistance tires designed for efficiency, quietness, and durability. These tires help extend your range, reduce road noise, and handle the unique demands of EV driving.

You might notice EV tires cost a little more up front. That’s because they often include reinforced sidewalls, advanced rubber compounds, and sound-absorbing materials to deliver a smooth, efficient ride. Think of it as an investment in performance and comfort.

If you ever need to replace them, check your owner’s manual or talk to a trusted service provider about tires that meet your vehicle’s specs. Swapping in the wrong kind could slightly reduce your range or make the ride noisier.

Brakes last longer, thanks to regenerative braking

One of the standout features of electric vehicles is regenerative braking. Instead of using brake pads every time you slow down, the system uses the electric motor to capture energy and send it back to the battery. It’s part of what makes EVs so efficient—and it’s easy to get used to.

Because the brake system is used less often, EV brake pads and rotors tend to last much longer than those on gas cars. That means fewer replacements and less frequent maintenance. However, some light upkeep is still important. For example, brakes that go too long without use can develop surface rust, especially in coastal areas like San Diego.

A good tip: every so often, do some gentle braking using the actual brake pedal (rather than just relying on regen mode) to keep everything in good working order.

Suspension components work a little harder

All that battery weight doesn’t just affect tires—it also puts more strain on your car’s suspension system. Over time, components like shocks, struts, and bushings can wear out, especially if you regularly drive on bumpy roads or carry heavy loads.

You don’t need to worry about this daily, but if you notice uneven tire wear, squeaky suspension, or a bumpier-than-usual ride, it’s a good idea to have it checked out. Regular tire rotations and alignments also help extend the life of both your tires and suspension.

What to expect for ongoing maintenance

Even with a few added considerations, EVs still come out ahead on long-term care. Here are some basics to keep on your radar:

• Tires: Inspect regularly and rotate as recommended. Replacements may be needed a bit sooner than with gas cars.
• Brakes: Last longer, but should still be inspected periodically for corrosion or wear.
• Suspension: Worth checking if you notice changes in ride comfort or handling.
• Fluids: EVs still use coolant and washer fluid—check your manual for service intervals.
• Routine care: Keep up with software updates, air filters, and other standard maintenance items.

Electric vehicles may require a slightly different approach to maintenance, but overall, they’re refreshingly simple to own. By understanding how EV tires and maintenance differ from traditional vehicles, you can avoid surprises and enjoy more confident, stress-free driving.

And best of all? You’ll probably spend a lot less time at the repair shop—which leaves more time for, well, everything else.

The news and editorial staffs of Southern California News Group and The San Diego Union-Tribune had no role in this post’s preparation.

Still, the latest AAA consumer survey finds that interest in going fully electric has taken a dip. Only 16% of U.S. adults say they’re likely to make an EV their next vehicle, down from previous years.

While that signals some hesitation, it doesn’t necessarily mean enthusiasm is gone for good. In fact, many of the reasons drivers do consider EVs remain strong—and the industry’s ongoing investment in innovation, range, and charging infrastructure continues to address key concerns.

Benefits of EVs

AAA’s survey shows that cost savings are still a major draw. EVs are not only cheaper to “fuel” than gas-powered vehicles—they’re also less expensive to maintain over time. According to AAA’s 2023 “Your Driving Costs” report, electric vehicles had the lowest fuel and maintenance costs of any vehicle category, based on a national average electricity price of 15.9 cents per kilowatt hour.

When gas prices surged past $5 per gallon in 2022, interest in EVs spiked. Even though fuel prices have since come down, EVs still offer substantial long-term savings—especially for drivers who log a lot of miles.

Environmental benefits also remain a key motivator, along with a growing appreciation for the smooth, quiet driving experience and the high-tech features found in many modern EVs.

More models, more miles and more charging stations

A few years ago, EV choices were limited to mostly compact sedans or pricey luxury cars. Today, buyers can find electric options in nearly every segment—SUVs, trucks, performance cars and affordable compacts. That variety is expected to keep growing as more automakers enter the market or expand their EV lineups.

Range anxiety—once one of the biggest worries—has also become less of a concern with newer models. Many 2024 and 2025 EVs offer 250–350 miles of range on a single charge, which is more than enough for most daily driving and even road trips. Consumer Reports recently noted that the median EV range now exceeds 270 miles, with more models pushing past the 300-mile mark.

Charging infrastructure is improving, too. The U.S. now has more than 70,000 public charging stations, according to the Department of Energy, with thousands more on the way thanks to federal investment. Home charging is also becoming more common, especially among homeowners with garages, making daily use even more convenient.

Addressing the hesitation

Despite these advances, AAA’s report shows that some common concerns are still top of mind. High battery repair costs (62%) and purchase price (59%) were cited as major barriers. Others worry about charging access, range for long-distance travel, or the complexity of installing a charger at home.

It’s worth noting, though, that many of these concerns are based on outdated information—or don’t tell the full story.

Battery prices have been steadily declining, and many EVs now come with warranties that cover the battery for 8 to 10 years. As for sticker shock, federal tax credits of up to $7,500 (plus state and local rebates in some areas) can significantly reduce upfront costs, bringing some EVs closer in price to their gas-powered counterparts.

Looking ahead

Automakers including Kia, GM, Ford, Hyundai and Toyota remain deeply committed to electrification, and EVs are at the center of their long-term strategy. Improvements in battery life, range and pricing continue to accelerate.

While consumers may need more time—and more education—to feel confident about making the switch, the benefits of EVs haven’t changed. And for many drivers, especially those who want to save money on fuel and maintenance or reduce their environmental impact, electric vehicles are already a smart, realistic option.

This article was created by Skyline Studio. The editorial department of Southern California News Group and The San Diego Union-Tribune had no role in this post’s preparation.