Exploring the Different Types of Electric Vehicles Available

Since the launch, Electric Vehicles (EV) have come a long way and are becoming more and more popular. With the advancement of technology, there are different types of electric vehicles in the market and each has unique characteristics and applications. Among them, a few EVs run solely on battery power while others are hybrid cars that work by combining an electric motor with other power sources. Alright! Now let’s dive into this article to explore the different types of electric cars to get detailed insights into EV cars and make an informed decision.

 

Different Types of Electric Vehicles

As already mentioned, Electric Vehicles have a wide range of options that cater to various needs and preferences. And the significant types of electric cars include:

 

1. Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs)

Battery Electric Vehicles are also referred to as 'pure electric vehicles' as they run entirely on electric motors with the help of rechargeable batteries that are made of lithium.

 

Lithium is chosen as a battery for its high power-to-weight ratio, as it provides more range in a smaller footprint. A notable fact is that these batteries can be charged using an EV charger. In simple terms, the BEVs are zero-emission vehicles that don’t cause any pollution to the environment. 

 

Working of BEVs

Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) convert Alternating Current (AC) into power for the electric motor, linked to the wheels through a gearbox. When braking or slowing down, the motor acts as a generator by producing electricity that recharges the battery. This process enables BEVs to run only on electric power thus minimizing emissions and promoting energy efficiency.

 

2. Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV)

Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) are one among the different EV models that use batteries and Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) to recharge the batteries. The PHEV runs on a battery that stores electricity until the energy is depleted. Then, the EV automatically switches to ICE and travels several kilometers with petrol/diesel. This helps cut emissions and fuel consumption on short trips, and when electricity isn't available, the vehicle can rely solely on petrol/diesel.

 

Working of PHEV

PHEVs often start in an all-electric mode and continue to run until their battery pack power is drained. Some models enter hybrid mode when traveling at speeds of 60 or 70 mph on the highway.

 

PHEV batteries can be charged by an internal combustion engine or through regenerative braking apart from being connected to an external electric power source. As the vehicle slows down, the electric motor acts as a generator, supplying power to the battery. As the engine's power is supported by the electric motor, smaller engines can be used, increasing fuel efficiency without compromising performance.

 

3. Hybrid Electric Vehicles

Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) use the Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) and an electric motor. The important difference between an HEV and a PHEV is that in an HEV, you cannot plug an EV charger to charge the battery. With the help of the engine and regenerative braking, the onboard battery pack is charged.

 

The extra power that is generated by the electric motor may allow the vehicle to have a small engine. To help reduce idling when stopped, the battery pack can work as an auxiliary battery for the car. This can improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions when compared to a traditional engine car.

 

The different types of HEVs are:

Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicles (MHEVs):

MHEVs are also referred to as Power Assist Hybrids or Battery Assisted Electric Vehicles. It uses an electric motor and battery pack to power the vehicle and make the engine shut off if the car is stopped.

 

Full Hybrid Electric Vehicles (FHEVs):

Full hybrids have more powerful electric motors and larger capacity battery packs than milder hybrids. On battery power, they can travel at shorter distances at low speeds.

 

Working of HEVs

Similar to a normal petrol or diesel-powered vehicle, the main source of power for HEVs is an internal combustion engine. Several kinds of internal combustion engine and electric motor combinations are possible for HEV power sources.

 

Most of the time, the car is driven by a combination of its internal combustion engine and electric motor. They might work in two different ways in certain situations. When changing gears or idling, the electric motor might keep the IC engine moving.

 

4. Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs)

FCEV uses a similar system like Battery Electric Vehicles. In FCEV, the energy is stored as hydrogen and then converted into a fuel cell to move the vehicle. The Fuel Cell vehicles have a gas tank which is used to store the hydrogen. 

 

The tank can be filled in minutes like a conventional ICE vehicle. FCEV uses regenerative braking technology for storing the energy lost in braking, which is stored in the battery pack.

 

Working of FCEV

Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs) work by using hydrogen gas to generate electricity through a chemical process in the fuel cell. This electricity then powers an electric motor to move the vehicle. This technology holds promise for reducing emissions and dependence on fossil fuels in the automobile sector.

 

Final Thoughts

Since the introduction of the first electric car in the 1830s, there have been considerable advancements in technologies used in electric vehicles. Depending on driving styles, range, and environmental preferences, consumers can choosevarieties of electric vehicleoptions available.

 

In overall, understanding the characteristics of different types of electric vehicles will help make a well-informed purchasing decision. Then, what are you waiting for? Opt the one that suits your needs and reap its benefits in real-time.

 

FAQs

1. Which vehicle insurance will be suitable for electric cars?

Third-party car insurance is mandatory for electric cars, but opting for Comprehensive Electric Car Insurance will provide additional protection to the EVs.

 

2. Why are electric cars so expensive?

Electric cars are expensive partly because the batteries used in EVs are costly, and replacing them can be expensive

 

3. Is the electric vehicle a sustainable mobility solution?

Experts and scientists claim that EVs have an advantage in sustainable mobility as they reduce CO₂ emissions and offer other environmentally beneficial features.

 

4. Does the speed of an electric car affect its range?

Yes, speed can impact the range of an electric car. Generally, higher speeds require more energy to overcome air resistance, leading to increased power consumption, and this can potentially reduce the car's range.