What kind of car is an EV?
Electric vehicles (EVs) are cars powered primarily by electricity stored in rechargeable batteries, using electric motors rather than a traditional gasoline engine.
Beyond that basic definition, EVs come in several forms—most notably battery electric vehicles (BEVs), plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), and conventional hybrids (HEVs). This article explains what defines an EV, the main types, how charging works, and practical considerations for potential buyers.
What defines an electric vehicle
EVs share a propulsion system based on electric power rather than an internal-combustion engine, with a high-voltage battery powering an electric motor(s) and power electronics managing speed and torque.
Here are the core characteristics that set EVs apart from conventional gasoline cars:
- Electric motor(s) powered by a rechargeable high-voltage battery pack
- Zero tailpipe emissions for BEVs; reduced emissions overall for PHEVs/HEVs depending on operation
- Energy storage and propulsion integrated on board
- Regenerative braking to recover energy
- Quiet operation with instant torque characteristic of electric propulsion
These attributes define how EVs operate, their efficiency, and how drivers recharge them.
Types of electric vehicles
There are several main categories of EVs, each with different capabilities and everyday use cases:
- Battery electric vehicle (BEV): powered entirely by electricity stored in on-board batteries and recharged from the grid; no internal combustion engine for propulsion
- Plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV): combines an internal combustion engine with a rechargeable battery that can be charged from the grid, enabling a period of electric-only driving
- Hybrid electric vehicle (HEV): uses both gasoline engine and electric motor, but the battery is charged through the engine and regenerative braking and cannot be plugged in
In practice, BEVs are the dominant choice for drivers who want to eliminate tailpipe emissions, while PHEVs and HEVs offer flexibility when charging options are limited or when longer trips are common.
Range, charging, and performance
Performance and range depend on a vehicle's battery size, efficiency, and charging access. Here’s a quick primer:
- Range: most modern BEVs provide roughly 200–400 miles per full charge, with several models exceeding 400 miles
- Charging options: Level 2 home charging typically 3–11 kW; DC fast charging 50–350 kW across networks
- Charging time: with fast chargers, 15–60 minutes to reach 80% depending on battery size and charger; home charging often overnight
- Costs and incentives: EVs can have higher upfront prices but lower fuel costs, maintenance, and available incentives
Understanding range, charging speed, and total ownership costs helps buyers match a vehicle to daily routines and trips.
Practical buying considerations
Choosing an EV involves evaluating upfront price, incentives, everyday charging options, and infrastructure access.
- Upfront price and incentives: many BEVs carry higher sticker prices but may be eligible for federal, state, or local subsidies
- Home charging readiness: a garage or parking space with electrical capacity makes owning an EV easier
- Driving needs: consider daily miles, cargo space, climate, and access to fast charging for long trips
- Warranty and battery longevity: check battery warranty length and coverage for degradation
Proper planning around charging, warranties, and incentives can ease the transition to electric driving.
Summary
Electric vehicles are cars powered by electricity stored in batteries and delivered to electric motors. BEVs run entirely on electricity, PHEVs combine a plug-in electric range with a gasoline backup, and HEVs use a dual powertrain without plugging in. With longer ranges, expanding charging networks, and growing incentives, EVs have become a practical option for many drivers. When considering an EV, evaluate your daily driving patterns, access to charging, total cost of ownership, and available incentives to find a fit.
