Types of Electric Vehicle and How To Choose Between Them
Are you ready to purchase an electric vehicle (EV)? EVs are a revolution that will hugely favour Mother Nature. Besides the reduced pollution, these cars use more sustainable energy and save you money. Their popularity on the roads says that people have embraced the technology and are ready to roll. But what types of electric cars are available in the market? In this article, we will help you understand the different electric vehicle types, their distinct features, as well as the pros and cons.
Full Electric Vehicles (EV)
Full electric vehicles, commonly referred to as EVs, are electric vehicles that only use electricity as a power source. Also known as all-electric vehicles, these cars have an electric motor instead of an internal combustion engine (ICE). Since they only run on electric power, they have larger battery capacities and outputs when compared to their other counterparts.
Pros
- They have lower ongoing costs
- They reduce the carbon footprint
- They have low maintenance needs
- They are high-quality performance
- They are more convenient than regular fossil vehicles
Cons
- A limited number of charging stations
- It May take too long to charge
- Attract high upfront charges
- They need to be charged to be driven
Examples
- Tesla Model X
- Ford Mustang Mach-E
- Nissan Leaf
Mild hyrbid cars (MHEV)
Mild hyrbid cars offer a small amount of electrical assistance to the engine. Since it is not enough for the car to run on electric power alone, it requires a 48-volt starter motor. The motor is an integrated starter generator (ISG) that supplements the ICE.
Pros
- It is lighter than the regular hybrid car
- It has an affordable initial cost
- It consumes lesser power than hybrid vehicles
Cons
- It cannot run on electric power alone
- It may cause more pollution than the regular hybrid cars
Examples
Plugin Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV)
A PHEV usually combines an ICE, battery pack, and electric motor for operations. You can plug into the mains electricity and allow for a longer range of electric-only power. Besides power durability, the cars are great for commuting on short journeys.
Pros
- Larger battery packs
- More powerful than hybrids
- Automatically recharges the battery
- It can use both fossil fuel and electricity
- The car is very easy to drive
Cons
- It is relatively expensive
- It may be complex to maintain
- Its battery has a short lifespan
Examples
Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV)
Hybrid cars combine an ICE, an electric motor, and a battery pack. These three features ensure that the car reduces fuel consumption. These cars are similar to normal ICE cars as you can top them with fossil fuels, commonly petrol.
Pros
- They are low-emission vehicles
- They use both electric power and fossil fuel
- The cars use minimal fuel
- They have to regenerate braking
- They require very minimal monitoring when charging.
Cons
- They have a high initial purchasing cost
- They attract higher insurance rates
- The cars have reduced fuel efficiency during the cold season
Examples
How to Choose the Best Electric Car
Here are a few aspects to check for as you find a good electric car.
Available Charging Stations
Where will you be charging the car? The cheapest and most convenient way to charge your car is overnight at home. You will need to install a home electric car charging system. If you do not have one, you will need to charge at the stipulated public charging stations.
Features and Specs
With the understanding of the different types of electric vehicles, you now know the specs that you desire. For example, if you want a car that uses electric and fossil fuel, you will go for hybrid cars. Think of what you want first before heading for the electric car yard- countercheck aspects such as the battery’s condition, the warranty, charging requirements, and general outlook.
Cost of the Car
How much are you willing to pay for the car? As you assess the cost, remember that some cars are used while others are new; they will have different price tags depending on the brand, year of manufacture, and specs. While most people look at the car’s initial cost, there is so much more to be on the lookout for. Check for the maintenance, charging costs, and repairs. Ensure that you can afford all of them.
Reviews
What are people saying about your selected electric car? Before you can finalise the purchase, ensure that you read the reviews online and know the experiences that previous buyers have had with the vehicle.
Conclusion
Finding an excellent electric car starts with an understanding of the available electric vehicle types. Once you know the type, it becomes easier for you to walk into a yard and select your most preferred option. With the factors highlighted above, we hope you have a clearer idea of choosing the best electric cars.