Electric Vehicles Gain Ground in Argentina with Lower Operating Costs and New Requirements
The tariff exemption for a quota of 50,000 hybrid and electric vehicles changed the pricing landscape in Argentina. While imported models paid up to 35% in import duties, the measure allowed several electric vehicles to reach price levels comparable to gasoline-powered alternatives.
100% electric vehicles represent about 10% of sales within the battery-powered vehicle universe. Unlike conventional cars, they operate with a lithium battery and an electric motor, have no exhaust system or traditional front grille, and generate an electronic sound designed to alert pedestrians to their presence.
One of their main advantages lies in operating costs. To cover an equivalent distance, energy consumption can be 80% to 90% lower than refueling with gasoline. They also require less maintenance: service intervals occur every 20,000 kilometers, compared to the typical 10,000 kilometers for combustion vehicles, and they eliminate the need for engine oil, spark plugs, exhaust systems, catalytic converters, and other components.
The regenerative braking system allows energy recovery and reduces brake pad and rotor wear. The feature known as One Pedal Drive makes it possible to decelerate by lifting your foot off the accelerator, although electric vehicles maintain components shared with conventional cars, such as the cabin air filter, coolant, and brake system.
The main limitation is related to charging times. Bringing the battery from 20% to 80% requires at least 30 minutes and can exceed an hour, depending on its capacity and the charger's power output. Therefore, the most practical use involves charging the vehicle during periods when it remains parked at home or at work.
Having your own charger or regular access to one is key to adopting this technology. Home charging costs two to three times more than charging at public points located in shopping centers or service stations, but it allows you to take advantage of rest hours or work time. Driving range, meanwhile, generally does not exceed 400 kilometers; models that surpass that figure typically belong to high-end segments and exceed USD 70,000.