Jeff Flock of Fox Business tested the practicality of long-distance travel in a Tesla electric vehicle from Chicago to New York, covering 800 miles and charging the vehicle eight times. The trip highlighted the importance of planning for charging stops and the reality that EV trips can take longer than those in gas-powered vehicles. Despite the challenges, Flock emphasized the coolness of the technology and the environmental benefits, noting that the cost of charging is comparable to fueling a traditional car. The journey was a response to the Biden administration's push for clean transportation and the concerns of drivers regarding EV range and charging infrastructure.
Kentucky has introduced two new taxes on electric vehicles (EVs) that are higher than the taxes on gas vehicles for equivalent energy usage. EV owners now face a $120 annual registration fee and an additional tax at public charging stations, which is 3 cents per kilowatt-hour, or 6 cents on state property. These taxes are significantly higher than the state's gas tax and disproportionately affect apartment dwellers and commuters who rely on public charging. The rationale behind the taxes is the misconception that EVs do not contribute to road maintenance costs, despite evidence that heavy trucks cause most road damage. Critics argue that these taxes are counterproductive, especially since Kentucky aims to be a leader in EV manufacturing and could benefit from cleaner air associated with increased EV usage.
