The first electric car charging station is now up and running in the village of Fayetteville, and it is free to use for one year.

It is the first of ten charging stations the village will install as part of a bigger climate action plan.

“We decided that that was something that we wanted to leave as a legacy for the next generation of residents and our grandchildren,” said village Mayor Mark Olson, following a ribbon cutting event on Thursday.

The network is growing, with about 170 charging stations in Onondaga County now…most run by private companies.

Fayetteville will turn over their new charging station to a third party operator after the first year in service.

“You’re going to pay 40% of what you’d pay compared to gasoline. The biggest savings is that you are driving a vehicle that is much more efficient,” said Barry Carr with Clean Communities of CNY.

No oil changes – and it costs less to charge up at home.

But, even with thousands of dollars in tax credits and rebates, drivers still pay more for electric cars and not every mechanic can fix them. Buyers generally need to see the dealer to address any issues.

“In order to sell the vehicle, you have to be able to repair the vehicle. We have specially trained technicians, special equipment, we have people that are trained to work specifically on these,” says Kevin Dana, a car salesman with East Syracuse Chevrolet.

Most vehicles have a warranty that covers the battery for several years.

Buyers should pack patience for long trips too. Depending on the station, charging can range from 45-minutes to about four hours.

Drivers who worry about getting stuck with a drained battery can buy a tool that provides a quick boost with enough power for several miles.

Barry Gordon bought a hybrid last year in an effort to be more environmentally conscious.

He has a small tank in the hybrid as a safety net.

During long trips, a smartphone app shows him where to find charging stations throughout Central New York.

“I can’t remember the last time I’ve been to a gas station,” Gordon says. “There’s no question that electric vehicles are on their way.”