The truth about electric vehicles in Arizona: Hot roads, cool tech
Electric vehicles (EVs) tend to stir up a lot of opinions—and, often, a lot of misconceptions. In Arizona, those myths are especially common. From questions about how these vehicles perform in the heat to concerns about charging infrastructure and range capabilities, I’ve heard plenty of doubts about electric vehicles.
As someone who works for Ford, I see firsthand how quickly the landscape is changing. Arizona isn’t just catching up with the electric movement. In many ways, it’s helping to lead it.
Between rising gas prices, major advancements in EV technology, and new investments in charging infrastructure, the signs are clear: EVs aren’t just part of the future. They’re already a big part of the present.
Here are a few of the most common myths I hear—and why they don’t hold up:
Myth #1: EVs Can’t Handle the Heat
Arizona summers are no joke, but Ford electric vehicles are built with extreme weather in mind. In fact, our engineers test them in some of the hottest conditions in the Southwest. Vehicles like the Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning are equipped with battery cooling and thermal management systems designed to perform even when temperatures climb. They’re tested here, because they’re meant to thrive here.
Myth #2: EVs Cost Too Much
It’s true that the initial purchase price can be higher, but there’s more to the story. With Arizona gas prices averaging about 35 cents above the national average, EV owners can save a lot over time. For example, charging an F-150 Lightning at home can save nearly $100 a month in fuel costs. And with fewer moving parts and no oil changes, maintenance costs are also significantly lower, saving an extra $950 a year.
Myth #3: There Aren’t Enough Charging Stations
This concern is becoming less relevant every day. Arizona is investing more than $76 million in charging infrastructure, with 21 new high-speed stations planned by the end of 2025. But the real convenience is at home—between 80 and 90 percent of Ford EV drivers charge overnight in their garages. We offer free home chargers for owners through Ford Power Promise because t’s simple and reliable to start every day with a full charge.
Myth #4: EVs Don’t Perform Like Gas Vehicles
EVs offer a different kind of driving experience—one that’s often quicker, smoother, and quieter. And you definitely do not have to sacrifice performance to drive electric. In fact, The Mustang Mach-E GT, can go from 0 to 60 mph in as fast as 3.3 seconds. That’s performance that rivals some of the fastest gas-powered sports cars, and it comes with the added benefit of instant torque and responsive handling.
Myth #5: EVs Can’t Handle Road Trips
Arizonans love the open road, and EVs are more than capable of keeping up. The fear that EVs can’t do the distance is quickly being disproved. Today’s electric vehicles offer real range—often hundreds of miles on a single charge. And with Ford’s BlueOval Charge Network connecting thousands of stations across Arizona and beyond, top offs take as little as 20-30 minutes. So, planning a weekend in Sedona or a trip to the Grand Canyon is easier than ever – and free of worry from range anxiety.
Looking Ahead
Arizona is uniquely positioned for an electric future. High gas prices, a growing network of chargers, and vehicles engineered for desert conditions are making EVs a practical choice for more drivers every day. I see it in my own community—more friends, neighbors, and coworkers are making the switch, and realizing it fits their lives better than they expected.
At Ford, we’re proud to be part of this momentum. We’re not just building vehicles; we’re helping shape a smarter, more sustainable way to drive in Arizona and beyond. The road ahead looks exciting—and electric.
Tom Somerville is the Marketing Director for Enthusiast Electric Vehicles at Ford Motor Company, where he has helped launch vehicles like the Mustang Mach‑E Rally.