Understand the differences between different types of electric and hybrid cars
Electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids are becoming a common feature on the world’s roads, and their popularity has grown exponentially in recent years.
With growing demand comes a wider range of options, and manufacturers are clinging to this contemporary shift in consumer behavior. In fact, as shown in this electric car sustainability guide74% of OEMs now have an electric vehicle plan.
Thinking of buying a car that doesn’t just run on gasoline or diesel? If so, it’s important to understand the different types available and how they compare to each other. This article will give you a brief overview of the three main types of electric and hybrid cars: all-electric, hybrid and plug-in hybrid. We’ll discuss the pros and cons of each type of car, so you can decide which is right for you.
Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV)
BEVs are probably the variant you are most familiar with. They are generally considered the most environmentally friendly option, as they produce zero carbon emissions when on the road. BEVs are powered by an electric motor, which uses rechargeable batteries, meaning there’s no need for an internal combustion engine (ICE) or fossil fuels, making them the option inherently cleaner compared to petrol or diesel cars.
While significant steps have been taken to reduce some barriers to BEV adoption, there is still some uncertainty among drivers of traditional cars, which means the technology cannot yet be considered a silver bullet. Some of the most common barriers include range anxiety, concerns about the availability of public charging, and the upfront cost, which is usually much higher than a petrol/diesel equivalent.
Advantages
- Reduced carbon footprint – zero emissions means this is the most environmentally friendly option
- Fewer moving parts means less need for ongoing maintenance
- Quieter and smoother driving experience
The inconvenients
Hybrid (HEV)
For drivers who might be skeptical about going all-electric, hybrids can serve as the perfect middle ground. An ICE and an electric motor work side by side to power an HEV. They will be an ideal compromise for those who are hesitant to use BEVs, as there are very few noticeable differences between driving a traditional automatic car and a hybrid car.
The electric motor will be used to provide the ICE with some extra power when needed, or may be the only source of power when traveling short distances. Hybrids cannot be plugged in to charge the battery. In place, regenerative braking technology and ICE operation is what powers the battery, meaning HEVs can self-recharge.
Advantages
- Will have better efficiency than traditional cars
- Generally cheaper than all-electric models
The inconvenients
- Potential Safety Concerns Around High Voltage Battery
- Reduced power and potentially poorer handling
- More complex components can make maintenance expensive
Plug-in hybrid (PHEV)
Just like standard hybrids, PHEVs have both a traditional gasoline or diesel engine and an electric motor, which work in tandem to improve the car’s overall efficiency and performance. The main difference between the two is in the name – a PHEV’s battery can be recharged by charging, so it generally uses more electricity than a standard HEV.
Advantages
- No exhaust emissions when driving with batteries
The inconvenients
- There are usually more running costs than BEVs
- Fuel economy not ideal for long highway trips
- Battery life will be less than BEVs
to summarize
In summary, while BEVs are leading the charge for durability in the automotive industry, they are not the only option for drivers looking for a contemporary upgrade to their traditional petrol/diesel engine. Depending on what you prioritize when it comes to your car, one option may suit your preferences better than another.
If the environment remains at the top of your list of priorities, then a BEV will be the best option for you. But if you’re looking for a versatile driving experience similar to that of a traditional car, consider a hybrid. A plug-in hybrid falls somewhere between these two extremes, and depending on the type of journeys you typically take, it may be the type that ticks all your boxes.