What Type of Electric Vehicles Are There?
Electric Vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular nationwide, and there are a variety of options available for those in the market for one. We've compiled a list of the most common types below.
Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs)
When people talk about EVs, they are usually referring to Battery Electric Vehicles. These vehicles run entirely on electricity from a rechargeable battery pack, and do not require gasoline. BEVs are considered zero-emission vehicles because they don't produce the harmful tailpipe emissions or air pollution associated with gasoline-powered cars.
Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs)
Hybrid Electric Vehicles use both a gasoline-powered engine and an electric motor. The battery can be charged using regenerative braking, which captures energy normally lost during braking to assist the gasoline engine during acceleration.
Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs)
Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles also use both a gasoline engine and an electric motor. Similar to traditional hybrids, they can recharge their battery through regenerative braking. However, they typically have a larger battery and the ability to plug into the grid for recharging. A PHEV can travel for several dozen miles using only electric power before the gas engine is needed, at which point it functions like a regular hybrid.
