As the automotive industry evolves, so do the options available to consumers. Today, the market offers a range of alternative powertrains, such as EVs, BEVs, PHEVs, and HEVs. That’s a nice jumble of TLAs—but what do these terms mean anyway?
Electric Vehicles (EV) or Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV)
Electric vehicles, referred to as EVs or BEVs in theelectric vehicle glossary, are fully electric cars that operate solely on electric power. They are the epitome of green transportation, producing zero tailpipe emissions. The primary components of an EV are an electric motor powered by a large battery pack and a charger.
EVs must be plugged into an electric power source to recharge their batteries.How far an EV can travel on a single chargedepends on its motors, batteries, and many other factors. However, EVs can typically travel between 100 and 300 miles on a single charge. Popular EVs include the Tesla Model 3, Nissan Leaf, and the Chevrolet Bolt.
Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV)
Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles, or PHEVs, blend the best of both worlds by combining an internal combustion engine (usually gasoline) with an electric motor and a battery.PHEVs can be charged via an electrical outlet, which allows them to operate on electric power for a limited range, usually between 20 to 50 miles.
Once the electric range is depleted, the internal combustion engine kicks in, providing additional driving range while charging the battery. This hybrid nature gives PHEVs greater flexibility, making them ideal for those who need long-distance travel capabilities and want to minimize their fuel consumption. Popular PHEVs include the Toyota Prius Prime and the Ford Escape PHEV.
Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV)
Hybrid Electric Vehicles, or HEVs, are the predecessors of PHEVs, featuring an internal combustion engine and an electric motor. However, unlike PHEVs, HEVs cannot be charged through an electrical outlet. They generate electric power primarily throughregenerative brakingand the internal combustion engine, with no option for external charging.
This means HEVs rely on the gasoline engine for all their power needs and have a smaller battery pack for limited electric-only driving. The electric battery and motors in HEVs are meant to assist the gasoline engine, not replace it. Popular HEVs include the Toyota Prius and the Honda Insight.
EV vs. PHEV vs. HEV: The Difference
Now, let’s delve into the key differences between Electric Vehicles (EVs), Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs), and Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs):
So, while all of these use an electric battery of some type, its role differs depending on the specific type of vehicle.
Navigating the Roads of Tomorrow
Although EVs, PHEVs, and HEVs all have batteries and electric motors, the roles and importance of these components vary in each type. EVs function purely on batteries and electric motors; PHEVs have traditional engines as well and provide a limited but practical all-electric range. HEVs rely primarily on their conventional engines, and the electrics assist the engine.
Understanding the distinctions between these three vehicle types, from their power sources to charging capabilities and emissions, is vital for selecting the right vehicle for your lifestyle and environmental concerns. Even if you don’t plan on buying an electric vehicle, at the very least, now you’re able to make sense of all the different terms surrounding modern vehicles.
