PORTLAND, OR -- With pushes at the state and federal level to convert to electric vehicles, more people are shopping for EVs. But buying new can cost $10,000 - $30,000 more than their gas-powered counterparts, pushing the price out of reach for many drivers.

AAA-Oregon's Marie Dodds says shopping used could be the answer, thanks to depreciation. "With electric vehicles, their value tends to go down more quickly than a gas powered vehicle," she tells KBND News, "So, when you’re looking at buying a used EV, the price gap between the comparable gas powered vehicle and the electric vehicle tends to be smaller."

AAA just released a 2023 Used EV Buyer’s Guide. Dodds says it offers information to help those looking for a pre-owned electric car, "The basic background of electric vehicles, driving range and charging; you know, what’s the difference between Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 charging. Used EV ownership cost comparisons; so, battery versus gas powered - how much does it cost you? Repair and maintenance costs."

Dodds says about a quarter of the nation’s EV shoppers would prefer to buy used, but hunting for the right vehicle is a little bit different, "There are certain things to consider that you might not consider if you’re buying a gas powered vehicle. For example, the age of the vehicle, how long will the battery last?"

While they tend to be more expensive than a gas-powered vehicle, Dodds says there are other areas EV drivers save money, "Most of the time, they cost less to maintain and repair than a traditional gas powered vehicle. And, of course, when you’re looking at fuel, you can save substantially because you’re not filling it up with gas."