What Type of Electric Vehicles Are There?

Electric Vehicles (EVs) are becoming more prevalent throughout the country. When searching for an EV, shoppers may encounter various options. Below, we've provided an overview of some of the most common types.

Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs)

When referring to EVs, Battery Electric Vehicles are usually what come to mind. These vehicles rely solely on electric power and do not use gasoline engines. The energy used to operate the vehicle comes from a rechargeable battery pack. BEVs are considered zero-emission vehicles as they do not produce the harmful tailpipe emissions or air pollution associated with gasoline-powered cars.

Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs)

A Hybrid Electric Vehicle uses both a gasoline-powered engine and an electric motor. The battery can be charged through regenerative braking. In a traditional gas-powered car, this braking energy is lost as heat in the brakes, but in a hybrid, it is repurposed to help the gas engine during acceleration.

Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs)

Like a hybrid, a Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle also uses both an engine and an electric motor. PHEVs can partially recharge their batteries through regenerative braking, but they typically have larger batteries and can be plugged into a grid for recharging. A PHEV can travel several dozen miles on electric power before the gas engine is needed. Once the all-electric range is exhausted, a PHEV operates like a traditional hybrid and can travel on gasoline.