From the legendary muscle cars of the 1960s to the family-friendly SUVs of the 2000s, automobiles have changed drastically over the decades.

Today we’re seeing another shift with the rise of environmental consciousness and sustainability. More and more consumers are considering switching from gas-powered to electric vehicles (EVs), weighing essential factors such as the wider effects on the planet, expenses, and their lifestyle.

Environmental impact

There are numerous reasons for the growing curiosity about electric cars. First, many buyers are looking for greener substitutes, and these types of vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions—thus lowering their carbon footprint. That said, the production of EV batteries can involve the extraction of certain raw materials like lithium and nickel, which is thought to negatively affect the environment. When you consider this factor and the fact that the energy used to manufacture and charge these vehicles depends on the energy sources in any given region, the electric vehicle choice may not seem as clear-cut.

Of course, gas vehicles’ impact on the planet, including relying on fossil fuels and increasing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, also begs serious questions about their viability. This factor alone can sway the average consumer to opt for an EV.

Reliability

One of the most important benefits of electric autos is that they can be charged at home, which can be done overnight and usually costs less than refilling a gas-powered car. In addition, the increasing ubiquity of charging stations facilitates easier travel across great distances for owners of electric vehicles.

Still, there are some drawbacks. For example, even if current models have ranges of between 200 and 350 miles on a single charge, range anxiety—the stress of running out of battery power—remains a reality. In addition, as indicated earlier, it still takes longer to charge EVs compared to pulling up to a pump and refilling within minutes, which is especially crucial in areas where there are fewer fast-charging stations. In contrast, gas-powered options tend to be advantageous when it comes to fuel prevalence, thanks to our nation’s well-established, gas-station- centric infrastructure.

Safety

Electric vehicles have a lower center of gravity because of their battery placement, which, along with being heavier, helps to improve stability and lessen their rollover risk. Many of them also feature modern safety systems such as accident detection and autonomous braking. In addition, battery fires are somewhat rare, even though they have caught people’s attention, especially in relation to major accidents.

Gas vehicles are generally considered passenger safe and offer many of the same safety features as EVs, such as airbags, stability control, and driver assistance systems. Unsurprisingly, though, considering the flammable oils they contain, the risk of fuel fires is always a concern for people who own traditional vehicles.

Cost

Typically speaking, an electric vehicle’s starting cost is going to be higher, primarily because of the battery. Whereas the price of a new small gas-powered car could vary anywhere from around $20,000 to $25,000, an electric counterpart is usually between $30,000 and $40,000—however, government programs like the clean vehicle tax credit can help lessen this price gap. And since EVs have fewer moving parts and are, on average, less expensive to maintain, the lifetime cost of gas and electric vehicles balances out somewhat.

Ultimately, which side you come down on in this ongoing dilemma largely depends on your individual priorities and lifestyle. Do your homework and stay informed about automotive trends, and you can make the best vehicle-buying decision for you.