Types of Electric Vehicles (BEV, HEV, PHEV, FCEV)
As technology evolves and new advancements make electric vehicles (EVs) generally more accessible, it's no wonder why the popularity of EVs is on the rise. Consumers today have more options than ever before. From electric crossover SUVs to compact cars, trucks, and more—there is a diverse range of choices to fit nearly any taste and budget.
Published On: August 2, 2023
For now, there are four electric vehicle types:
1. Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) use an electric motor to power the vehicle with electricity coming entirely from onboard batteries. They produce zero emissions while driving and require no gasoline.
2. Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) combine a traditional gasoline-powered engine with an electric motor that can be recharged by plugging into an external power source.
3. Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) are similar to PHEVs, but use regenerative braking instead of a plug to recharge the battery.
4. Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs) are similar to BEVs, as they only use an electric motor to drive the vehicle. However, batteries are charged through the use of hydrogen fuel cells to generate electricity, producing only water vapor as a byproduct.
Each type of EV has its benefits ranging from reduced emissions to improved fuel efficiency and cost savings. Understanding the unique advantages and charging infrastructure for each kind of EV is key to selecting the right vehicle for your needs.
Let’s explore the differences between the four types of electric vehicles and what you can expect from each in terms of performance, driving range, and charging requirements.
Battery electric vehicles (BEVs)
Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), also known as “all-electric vehicles,” are battery-powered and run entirely on electricity stored in a rechargeable battery pack. Unlike hybrid vehicles with gasoline engines, BEVs do not have an internal combustion engine.
BEVs rely entirely on external equipment to recharge their batteries, which can take anywhere from 20 minutes to 50 hours, depending on the charging rate and the vehicle's battery capacity. The driving range of a typical BEV varies based on the vehicle and the battery pack's size, but they can generally travel anywhere from 100 to 500+ miles or more on a full charge.
Why choose a BEV? – They’re a good option for individuals looking for an emissions-free mode of transportation with low operating costs.
Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs)
Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) combine both electric and gasoline or diesel power. The way it does this is based on the drivetrain, which creates three sub-classifications of PHEVs:
• Series: Uses a gas engine to charge the electric battery, meaning the vehicle’s movement is entirely from electric energy.
• Parallel: Can use a gas engine to power the vehicle with or instead of the electric motor, meaning the vehicle can run entirely on gas, a combination of gas and electricity, or electricity only.
PHEVs can be recharged by plugging into an external power source, just like BEVs, but they also have the option to be refueled at gas stations. The versatility of having an engine and electric motor allows PHEVs to travel longer distances without drivers worrying about finding a charging station. On average, PHEVs currently in the market can travel anywhere from 15-60+ miles on electric power alone, depending on the vehicle and battery size, before switching to gasoline power.
Why choose a PHEV? – They’re excellent for drivers who want the benefits of electric power for short trips but need the flexibility of gasoline power for longer journeys.
Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs)
Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) utilize both electric and gasoline power—but unlike PHEVs, they cannot be plugged in to charge. The internal combustion engine is fueled by gasoline, and a separate electric motor is recharged with regenerative braking or through the gasoline engine via an onboard generator. Much like PHEVs, HEVs can also be classified into subtypes based on their drivetrain.
HEVs typically have smaller battery packs than PHEVs and BEVs, which limit their electric-only driving range. However, their gasoline engine provides additional range, allowing them to typically travel longer distances than BEVs on a single tank of gas. HEVs are also more fuel-efficient than traditional gasoline vehicles, making them a good option for individuals who want to reduce their carbon emissions while driving and save on fuel costs. On average, HEVs can travel anywhere from under 20-59 miles per gallon of gasoline, depending on the vehicle's size and driving conditions.
Why choose an HEV? – They’re a good choice for those who want to reduce their driving emissions without sacrificing the convenience and flexibility of a gasoline-powered vehicle.
Fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs)
Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs) use a fuel cell stack to generate electricity, which powers an electric motor to propel the vehicle. They use hydrogen gas stored in a tank to produce electricity through a chemical reaction between the hydrogen and oxygen in the air.
FCEVs emit water vapor and heat as byproducts, making them zero-emission vehicles. They also typically have driving range that exceeds 300 miles, making them a practical option for longer trips. However, FCEVs are currently more expensive to produce than other types of electric vehicles, and there is limited availability of hydrogen fueling stations, making them less convenient for some drivers. Despite these challenges, FCEVs are a promising technology.
Why choose an FCEV? – They're ideal for reducing carbon emissions from the transportation sector, particularly in applications with a more extended range.
SHOP THE MAZDA ELECTRIFIED VEHICLES
As electric vehicle technology continues to improve, we can expect to see even more options for consumers in the future. With the increased availability of charging infrastructure, battery technology advancements, and the growth of renewable energy sources—electric vehicles are likely to become an increasingly attractive and more accessible option for drivers.
Explore the distinctive electrified vehicles Mazda offers, including the CX-90 PHEV, CX-70 PHEV, and CX-50 Hybrid, which can be plugged into any standard, grounded 120V household outlet. Celebrate driving with an electrified vehicle that can meet your taste and lifestyle.
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and is based on the latest competitive information available at the time of posting. Information herein is subject to change without notice and without Mazda incurring any obligations. You acknowledge that we have no duty or obligation to maintain or update any such information and agree that your reliance on any such information is at your own risk.