Electric cars, whether anyone likes it or not, are a highly politicized topic this year so it may feel like you are an ambassador for the EV movement as you talk with friends and family. 

If this feels overwhelming, don’t worry. Recurrent invited actor (and proud EV owner) Michael Ian Black to prepare you for the holiday journey ahead — more from him in a moment. 

Consider these the EV guiding principles for holiday engagement this year.

Make it personal... in a good way

The holidays are a time for pulling close the people that we love, and that sometimes means avoiding the things that can push us apart.

Our #1 piece of advice throughout the holidays is to keep it personal rather than political. Focusing on your experience with your EV keeps it conversational. Instead of speaking about electric cars in general, you’re simply sharing about yourself.

Clinical psychologists have shared similar suggestions on family political divides. 

But address the EV myths when they come up

The prevailing EV myths are rampant so you may find yourself on the front lines debunking even the most well-meaning inquiries. 

If you are confronted with an EV myth at the Thanksgiving table, one tried-and-true way to address it is with this handy template: “I had heard X, but have found Y, and I’m benefiting from Z.” 

EV Myth Example 1: Electric cars don’t work in the winter

“I had heard that electric cars are less efficient in cold weather, but I bought a car that will still go 200 miles in freezing conditions and can idle for days. Plus, being able to ‘start’ my car in the garage on cold days is a serious perk.”

EV Myth Example 2: Electric cars are difficult to charge

“I had heard that it takes forever to charge an EV, but I charge at home when I’m sleeping 99% of the time so it’s not something that affects me. I actually love charging because I wake up a ‘full tank’ each morning.”

Now that you have these rhetorical tools in your Thanksgiving tool belt, we asked actor Michael Ian Black (very famous 😂) to help you prepare. 

Brushing up on the basics

Our team of battery scientists created a free EV 101 series for you and your interested family members. While you may already feel like a seasoned EV pro, sign up now to get the first few lessons in before the next family gathering. (You can always forward them the link!)

Connect your EV

Winter is knocking so now is a good time to connect your EV to the Recurrent platform. Over 25,000 EV drivers understand winter range for free with Vehicle Insights.

Happy holidays and thanks as always for driving electric!