1. Set the budget, not the payment
Start from the out-the-door price: MSRP, destination, sales tax, registration. The federal credit ended on September 30, 2025, so don't count on $7,500. Check your state; about a dozen still pay something.
2. Work out where you will charge
This decides more than range does. If you can plug in at home, most of your charging is cheap and you rarely think about it. If you can't, map the fast chargers near you first and price them. Public charging averaged about $0.54 per kWh in Q3 2026, which can cost as much per mile as gas.
3. Buy for winter range
Take the EPA number and cut 30% if your winters get down to 20°F. Then add a road trip margin. If the winter number still covers your week, the car is fine.
4. Check the plug
Many new EVs have the Tesla-style NACS port. Others still have CCS and use an adapter at Superchargers. Ask which one the car has and whether the adapter is included. More on plugs.
5. Decide: lease or buy
EV values have moved a lot, and a lease moves that risk to the lender. Run both in the lease calculator with real numbers from the dealer.
6. At the dealer
- Get an out-the-door quote in writing before you visit.
- Ask for a battery state-of-health report if the car is used.
- Ask which trim the EPA range belongs to. Bigger wheels often cut it.
- Ask about the adapter, the charging cable and any included charging credit.