Electric Cars for Sale in Israel: A Comprehensive Guide

Hi Jake, are you considering purchasing an electric car in Israel? This article is for you. In this guide, we will provide a detailed overview of electric cars for sale in Israel, their advantages and disadvantages, and answer frequently asked questions. Let’s dive in!

Introduction

What are Electric Cars?

Electric cars, also known as electric vehicles (EVs), run on electric motors and rechargeable batteries instead of gasoline or diesel engines. They produce zero emissions, making them a more environmentally friendly and sustainable transportation option.

The State of Electric Cars in Israel

Israel has been a leader in clean energy and has set a goal to eliminate gasoline-powered cars by 2030. In 2018, the Israeli government announced a plan to reduce taxes on electric cars and set a target of 177,000 electric cars on the road by 2025. As a result, the number of electric cars in Israel has been steadily increasing.

Types of Electric Cars Available in Israel

There are currently three types of electric cars available in Israel:

  1. Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs): These cars run entirely on electric power, using only batteries to power the motor. Examples include the Nissan Leaf and the Tesla Model S.
  2. Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs): These cars have both a gasoline engine and an electric motor, allowing them to switch between electric and gasoline power. Examples include the Mitsubishi Outlander and the BMW i3.
  3. Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs): These cars use both an electric motor and a gasoline engine, but the electric motor cannot be charged externally. Examples include the Toyota Prius and the Honda Insight.

Charging Infrastructure in Israel

Israel has a growing network of charging stations, with over 2,500 public charging points across the country. The government is also investing in additional infrastructure to support the increasing number of electric cars on the road.

Cost of Electric Cars in Israel

Electric cars in Israel can range in price from approximately 150,000 to 500,000 shekels depending on the make and model.

Government Incentives for Electric Car Buyers

The Israeli government provides incentives for electric car buyers, including discounts on purchase taxes and reduced parking fees. Additionally, electric cars are exempt from the annual vehicle license fee.

Availability of Electric Car Models in Israel

Currently, there are several electric car models available in Israel, including:

  1. Nissan Leaf
  2. Tesla Model S and Model X
  3. Renault Zoe
  4. BMW i3
  5. Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
  6. Honda Clarity PHEV
  7. Hyundai Ioniq Electric
  8. Smart EQ Fortwo

Advantages and Disadvantages of Electric Cars for Sale in Israel

Advantages

  1. Environmentally-Friendly: Electric cars produce zero emissions, reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
  2. Lower Cost of Ownership: Electric cars are cheaper to maintain and have lower fuel costs than gasoline-powered cars.
  3. Incentives: The Israeli government provides incentives for electric car buyers, including discounts on purchase taxes and reduced parking fees.
  4. Quiet and Smooth Ride: Electric cars produce less noise and vibrations than gasoline-powered cars, providing a quieter and smoother ride.
  5. Instant Torque: Electric motors provide instant torque, making acceleration smoother and more responsive.
  6. Long-Term Savings: Although electric cars may have a higher upfront cost, they can save money in the long term due to lower maintenance and fuel costs.
  7. Reduced Dependence on Oil: Electric cars do not rely on oil or gasoline, reducing dependence on foreign oil and providing energy security.

Disadvantages

  1. Limited Range: Electric cars have a limited range, which can be a concern for long trips or commuting long distances.
  2. Charging Time: Electric cars take longer to charge than filling up with gasoline, and charging stations can sometimes be difficult to find.
  3. Higher Upfront Cost: Electric cars can be more expensive than gasoline-powered cars, although this cost is offset by lower fuel and maintenance costs.
  4. Battery Life: The batteries in electric cars have a limited lifespan, and replacing them can be costly.
  5. Availability: While electric cars are becoming more popular, they may not be readily available in all areas of Israel.
  6. Infrastructure: While Israel has a growing network of charging stations, there may still be limited infrastructure in some areas.
  7. Lower Resale Value: Electric cars may have a lower resale value than gasoline-powered cars, although this trend is changing as electric cars become more popular.

Complete Table of Electric Cars for Sale in Israel

Make and Model
Body Type
Battery Range (km)
Price Range (shekels)
Nissan Leaf
Hatchback
270
158,900 – 178,900
Tesla Model S
Sedan
610
400,000 – 700,000
Tesla Model X
565
450,000 – 800,000
Renault Zoe
Hatchback
395
139,900 – 159,900
BMW i3
Hatchback
310
209,000 – 258,000
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
SUV
54 (electric), 543 (gasoline)
199,900 – 229,900
Honda Clarity PHEV
Sedan
76 (electric), 600 (gasoline)
205,000
Hyundai Ioniq Electric
Hatchback
311
143,900
Smart EQ Fortwo
Coupe
145
122,900 – 127,900

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does it take to charge an electric car?

Charging times can vary depending on the size of the battery and the type of charger. On average, it takes about 30 minutes to charge an electric car to 80% capacity using a fast charger, and several hours to fully charge the battery using a standard charger.

2. How far can an electric car travel on a single charge?

The range of an electric car can vary depending on the make and model. In general, most electric cars have a range of around 200-300 kilometers on a single charge.

3. Can I charge my electric car at home?

Yes, you can charge your electric car at home using a dedicated charging station or a standard outlet. However, it may take longer to charge the battery using a standard outlet.

4. Are electric cars more expensive to maintain than gasoline-powered cars?

No, electric cars are generally cheaper to maintain than gasoline-powered cars because they have fewer moving parts and require less frequent maintenance.

5. What happens if the battery in my electric car runs out of charge?

If the battery in your electric car runs out of charge, you will need to find a charging station to recharge the battery. Some electric cars also have a backup gasoline engine that can be used to generate electricity in case of an emergency.

6. Can I drive an electric car in the rain?

Yes, electric cars are safe to drive in the rain and other weather conditions.

7. How much does it cost to charge an electric car?

The cost of charging an electric car can vary depending on the cost of electricity in your area and the size of the battery. On average, it costs around 50-70 shekels to fully charge an electric car in Israel.

Conclusion

Electric cars are becoming an increasingly popular choice for environmentally-conscious consumers in Israel. While there are some disadvantages to electric cars, such as limited range and higher upfront costs, the advantages, such as lower fuel costs and government incentives, make them a compelling option for many. We hope this guide has been helpful in your research into electric cars for sale in Israel.

Take Action Today!

If you’re ready to take the next step towards purchasing an electric car in Israel, visit your local car dealership or search for electric cars for sale online. Don’t forget to take advantage of the government incentives available to electric car buyers!

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional advice. Purchasing an electric car involves risks, including the risk of battery failure and the need for specialized maintenance. Please consult with a certified electric car technician before making a purchase decision.