Types of electric vehicles
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In today's world, electric vehicles have become an important part of the automotive landscape. The good news is that there are several ways to adopt electric mobility. However, it is crucial to understand the distinctions between a hybrid vehicle, a plug-in hybrid, hydrogen, and an all-electric vehicle. Let's dive into these options:
Hybrid vehicles
A hybrid car operates on a blend of an electric motor and an internal combustion engine. It primarily relies on the electric motor for acceleration and speeds up to 25 km/h, making it an excellent choice for urban environments. When higher speeds are required, the internal combustion engine seamlessly takes over. Notably, the electric motor recharges each time you brake, enhancing efficiency.
Plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEV)
Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) feature both an internal combustion engine and a larger battery, similar to hybrids. What sets them apart is the ability to charge via an external charging station, hence the name "plug-in hybrid." This capability grants PHEVs a significantly extended electric range compared to hybrids.
Fully electric vehicles (BEV)
A battery electric vehicle (BEV) relies solely on a large battery connected to at least one electric motor. It operates without any involvement of petrol, gas, or diesel. Thanks to innovations by companies like Tesla, as well as established manufacturers like Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Volkswagen, and Nissan, fully electric vehicles have become more affordable and widespread. Furthermore, the charging infrastructure and technology continue to evolve, with rapid growth in charging networks worldwide.
Which range do you prefer?
Compact and agile: Ideal for urban living, these vehicles offer superior maneuverability and energy efficiency. Perfect for daily commuting and parking in tight spaces. Sedans and SUVs: For those who need more space and comfort, electric sedans and SUVs combine luxury with performance. Enjoy a smooth ride and a spacious interior, without compromising efficiency. Electric vans: Optimize your business operations with this type of vehicle. Designed to offer robust load capacity and fuel efficiency, they are the ideal solution for transporting goods and tools. Premium vehicles: If you're looking for the best technology and comfort, luxury electric cars offer exceptional performance, from advanced driver assistance systems to high-end interiors.
Three types of hybrid cars and their CO2 impact
Hybrid vehicles come in three main types: mild hybrid, full hybrid, and plug-in hybrid. While all three combine a fuel engine with an electric motor, they differ in how these components work together, affecting their CO2 impact.
Mild hybrid
Equipped with a small electric auxiliary motor that offers extra torque, the mild hybrid primarily runs on petrol or diesel. It briefly engages the electric motor during acceleration to boost torque. This type of hybrid does not significantly impact CO2 emissions but boasts up to 10% better fuel economy compared to conventional petrol and diesel cars.
Full hybrid
Full hybrid vehicles utilize a combination of an electric motor and a fuel engine for efficient and environmentally friendly driving. These two engines cooperate to enhance fuel efficiency, particularly during periods of high fuel consumption. Like mild hybrids, full hybrids cannot be externally charged but rely on the fuel engine for charging. This results in limited CO2 effects, with notably improved fuel economy compared to traditional vehicles.
Plug-in hybrid
The plug-in hybrid closely resembles a regular hybrid but stands out due to a larger battery, a smaller internal combustion engine, and the ability to charge externally. This allows more extensive electric-only driving, especially on shorter trips, making plug-in hybrids more fuel-efficient and eco-friendly. However, it's crucial to align your driving patterns with this type, including daily electric charging, to maximise its benefits.
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