[ams6110]

Granted an electric motor is simpler and more durable than an internal combustion engine. The rest of the car, though, is still a car. It has a transmission, suspension, brakes, etc. all of which will need maintenance and repair like an ordinary car. And it remains to be seen how the battery packs will hold up over time, warranty notwithstanding.

[rbranson]

Transmission? There is no transmission -- electric motors have flat torque curves, so there's no need. It has a "gearbox," but it's basically just a differential. The transmission is one of the most expensive and arguably the most complex parts of an automobile powered by an internal combustion engine. Ever priced one of these? It's around $4,000-$10,000 for a replacement -- manual or automatic.

[prolepunk]

Also brakes although present, won't be used as much due to car's motor regenerative breaking, so they will need a lot less maintenance.