Cars and trucks are one of the leading causes of global warming. In fact, it’s estimated that personal vehicles account for about 20% of all U.S. carbon emissions. 

To reduce carbon emissions—and protect the planet—consumers can invest in an energy-efficient vehicle. A number of manufacturers produce eco-friendly vehicles, however, Tesla’s innovation and sleek designs have made the brand a consumer-favorite. But are these vehicles actually eco-friendly? Here’s what consumers should know about Tesla’s energy efficiency:

What Kind of Energy Does Tesla Use?

There are several different types of energy efficient cars, including electric, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. Tesla manufactures electric vehicles that are powered by lithium ion batteries, which are the same batteries that are used to power smartphones, laptops, and other devices. 

The lithium ion batteries that are used to power Tesla vehicles are much more powerful, though. Each of these batteries consists of thousands of lithium ion cells and weighs several thousand pounds.

Unlike other hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles, Tesla’s electric cars are completely battery-powered. This means that you cannot operate the vehicle unless the battery is charged. To charge the battery, consumers can either plug their vehicles into an outlet at a charging station or use a mobile connector to recharge on the go. Because it’s an electric vehicle, consumers cannot use gas to power their cars if their battery is running low.

How Long Does A Tesla Car Battery Last?

The number of miles you can drive a Tesla before having to recharge its battery will depend on a number of factors, including:

• Age of the vehicle
• Tesla model
• Driving speed
• Amount of time spent idling 

The range of a Tesla vehicle can vary. But in general, Tesla Model S can go about 370 miles per charge, whereas a Tesla Model X can go about 325 miles per charge. The standard Tesla Model 3 has a range of about 250 miles, but the long-range Model 3 can last for about 320 miles per charge.

How Energy Efficient Is A Tesla Vehicle?

Tesla has become synonymous with energy efficiency because of its eco-friendly electric vehicles. The average gas-powered vehicle releases about 4.6 metric tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere every year. But electric vehicles—like the ones manufactured by Tesla—release less than half of the carbon pollution emitted by a traditional gas-powered vehicle. 

Hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles are energy efficient as well. But because Tesla vehicles are solely powered by electricity, they are among the most energy efficient cars on the market.

How Much Does A Tesla Car Cost?

There are three different Tesla car models: the Model S, Model X, and Model 3. The Model 3, which starts at $35,000 for a vehicle with standard features, is Tesla’s most affordable line. Add-on features can increase the price of this model to nearly $60,000. 

The starting price for the Tesla Model S is around $85,000. However, the Model S Performance with Ludicrous Mode, which can accelerate more quickly, costs around $120,000.

The Model X is Tesla’s only sport-utility vehicle (SUV). The starting price for the Model X is $88,000, but it can cost as much as $124,000. 

These are the prices for new Tesla models. If a new Tesla is not within your budget, consider looking for a used model instead. This way, you can still enjoy the benefits of driving an energy-efficient vehicle without going over budget.

How Much Will You Save By Driving An Electric Vehicle?

Don’t rule out a Tesla vehicle based on its price alone. The cost of a Tesla vehicle may seem steep, but it’s important to remember how much you will save by investing in an electric car.

According to the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, a gallon of gas costs an average of $2.58 in the U.S. An “egallon,” which is the amount of electricity that provides the same amount of power as a gallon of gas, only costs $1.17. This means driving a gas-powered vehicle is over two times more expensive than driving an electric vehicle. These savings add up over time, making a Tesla far more affordable in the long run.

Get Behind the Wheel of An Energy Efficient Vehicle 

If you’re ready to go green, start by investing in an energy-efficient vehicle. There are many different energy-efficient models to choose from, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding an eco-friendly vehicle that fits your lifestyle and falls within your budget. Now, you can drive your way to a greener life!