Meet EV Owner: Jared Puls

Major automakers are funneling millions of dollars into building electric vehicles and an infrastructure to charge them.

But many drivers are still hesitant to make the switch from the traditional gas-powered vehicles they have driven all their lives to a battery-powered ride. They have questions about range, charging, and driving long distances, as well as confusion about EV concepts like regen paddles, one-pedal driving, and more.

Who better to ask these questions, than electric vehicle owners themselves?

In this series, we will be sharing the experiences of Runde customers who have made the transition to an EV.

Meet Jared Puls, of East Dubuque, who bought his first-ever electric vehicle a few months ago when he joined the staff of Runde Chevrolet as a Finance Manager.

He decided to lease a 2021 Chevy Bolt when he was trading in his 2018 Cruze.

“I was intrigued by electric vehicles,” he said. “I figured I would give the Bolt a try since prices on Chevrolet Bolts were low and I wouldn’t have to pay for gas.”

He has found it to be pretty straightforward, just remembering to plug it in overnight and checking that he has enough battery to get to his destination. He uses the MyChevrolet app to find charging stations.

The Bolt has been the perfect fit for Jared’s family.

“There is no engine that takes up space, which leaves more room in the interior,” he said. “I have a one-year-old girl and her car seat fits well. There is also enough cargo room in the trunk to hold a stroller.”

Jared likes the large infotainment screen and the Bolt’s zippy handling.

“The Bolt is quicker than most people realize,” he said. “Since there is no transmission, it accelerates quicker than most vehicles. It is also a quiet and smooth ride.”

He uses one-pedal driving, which allows a driver to slow the vehicle or bring it to a complete stop without using the brake pedal. There is an on-off button to engage the feature, so brake lights will function as if the driver is using the traditional hydraulic brakes.

“It took a little getting used to, but it’s convenient when you get the hang of it,” he said.

During one-pedal driving, the Bolt’s electric motor acts as a generator, converting kinetic energy from the vehicle’s forward motion into electricity. This electricity recharges the battery while the vehicle is braking.

Jared often gets questions about his Bolt. Here’s the advice he gives to people who are considering buying an EV:

“If you are someone who wants to get an electric vehicle but is still hesitant, I would say go for it. There will be more electric vehicles on the road in the future so you might as well give it a try now.”

Interested in becoming an EV owner?

Shop Runde Auto Group’s EV inventory here.