The Basics of an Electric Vehicle

What is an EV?

 

An electric vehicle (EV) is a type of vehicle that runs on electricity instead of gasoline or diesel. Here's a closer look at how they work:

 

Electric motor: Unlike gasoline-powered cars that use an internal combustion engine, EVs rely on one or more electric motors for propulsion.

 

Battery pack: EVs store electricity in a large, rechargeable battery pack. This battery supplies the power to the electric motor.

 

Charging: The battery can be plugged into a charging station or outlet to replenish its energy.

There are two main types of EVs:

 

Battery electric vehicles (BEVs): These are purely electric, meaning they get all their power from the battery and produce zero tailpipe emissions. BEVs need to be plugged in to recharge.

 

Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs): PHEVs can run on electricity for a limited range, after which a gasoline engine kicks in to extend the driving distance. PHEVs can also be plugged in to recharge the battery.

 

Benefits of an EV

All-electric vehicles (EVs) run on electricity only. They are propelled by one or more electric motors powered by rechargeable battery packs. EVs have several advantages over conventional vehicles:

 

Energy efficient. EVs convert over 77% of the electrical energy from the grid to power at the wheels. Conventional gasoline vehicles only convert about 12%–30% of the energy stored in gasoline to power at the wheels.

 

Environmentally friendly. EVs emit no tailpipe pollutants, although the power plant producing the electricity may emit them. Electricity from nuclear-, hydro-, solar-, or wind-powered plants causes no air pollutants.

 

Performance benefits. Electric motors provide quiet, smooth operation and stronger acceleration and require less maintenance than internal combustion engines (ICEs).

Reduced energy dependence. Electricity is a domestic energy source.

 

Drawbacks of an EV

EVs have some drawbacks compared to gasoline vehicles:

 

Driving range. EVs have a shorter driving range than most conventional vehicles—although EV driving ranges are improving. Most EVs can travel more than 100 miles on a charge, and some can travel in excess of 200 or 300 miles depending on the model.

 

Recharge time. Fully recharging the battery pack can take 3 to 12 hours. Even a "fast charge" to 80% capacity can take 30 min.

 

Batteries for EVs are designed for extended life, and a study by DOE's National Renewable Energy Laboratory suggest these batteries may last 12 to 15 years in moderate climates and 8 to 12 years in severe climates. However, these batteries are expensive, and replacing them may be costly if they fail.