The electric vehicles (EV) segment is undergoing a major boom in India. According to Bloomberg NEF’s EV Outlook 2024 report, India is predicted to achieve 5.9 million electric vehicle sales by 2040. This popularity is due to rising interest in electric vehicles as a sustainable, future-proof alternative to traditional fuel-powered cars.
If you are considering switching to an EV, it’s essential to understand the types of electric cars available in the market. There are three major kinds based on the powertrain configuration—Battery Electric Automobiles (BEVs), Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs), and Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs).
List of different types of electric cars
Each type of electric car has its benefits and drawbacks. Let’s learn more about them.
1. BEV: Battery Electric Vehicles
BEVs are the most common type of electric vehicle. They are 100% electric, meaning they are entirely powered by electric motors. This electricity is stored in large batteries.
BEVs work using the basic principle of converting direct current to an alternating current that powers the motor whenever the accelerator is pushed. A controller is an important component of a BEV that varies the alternating current frequency to drive the car at different speeds.
BEVs bring many advantages to the table:
- No damage to the environment and cleaner air because of zero tailpipe emissions.
- Lower operating costs compared to petrol and diesel cars.
- Quieter and smoother rides due to the lack of an internal combustion engine.
- Improves efficiency due to its regenerative braking system that recovers energy during deceleration.
- Government incentives and tax credits for purchasing BEVs.
While contemporary battery technology enables much longer ranges and quicker charging times, better technology is needed to enhance the viability of BEVs for long-distance travel. However, expansion of charging infrastructure is required for smooth operations.
2. PHEV: Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles
PHEVs come with an internal combustion engine and a chargeable battery to offer a long electrical range. This is a true hybrid car known as a series hybrid. Essentially, you have the flexibility to drive the car as an electric vehicle till it loses its charge. When the battery is depleted, a PHEV switches to its internal combustion engine which works on fossil fuel like a regular car. Like a BEV, you can also charge a PHEV’s battery by plugging it in.
Some of its benefits include:
- Flexibility to drive on electricity for shorter trips and switch to petrol or diesel for longer journeys, reducing range anxiety.
- Low fuel cost due to a mix of electricity and fuel.
- Eligible for several electric vehicle incentives and benefits.
- Capable of driving in electric-only mode for a brief period of time. This is called the zero-emission mode.
Just like BEVs, PHEVs also depend on improvements in battery technology to enhance their electric range.
3. HEV: Hybrid Electric Vehicles
Known as parallel hybrids, HEVs are similar to PHEVs, both have a combustion engine and electric motor. The engine derives energy from fuel, whereas the motor gets electricity from batteries. However, they have one major difference—HEVs cannot be plugged into the power grid to recharge. Instead, their battery charge is solely derived from regenerative braking and car power.
Some benefits of HEVs include:
- Efficient energy use results in lower emissions.
- No need for external charging, making ownership simpler.
- Really responsive driving experience due to the combined power of the fuel engine and electric motor.
- Enhanced fuel economy over conventional petrol vehicles.
Honourable Mention: FCEV: Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles
Apart from the three common types of electric cars, there is a fourth one that is relatively lesser known. This category is called Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs). These are zero-emission cars that utilise fuel cell technology to generate power. Fuel cells, unlike typical EV batteries, use oxygen that is present in the air along with compressed hydrogen to generate electricity. That means they don’t need any refilling or recharging.
However, FCEVs are still limited by various challenges. They are not very practical to produce or operate compared to other electric car types.
Conclusion
The type of electric car you choose depends on your driving needs. If you usually drive short distances, then 100% electric BEVs are ideal for you. If you are worried that your electric car might not give you enough range or reliability, then hybrids are ideal for you. Ultimately, whether you opt for a BEV, HEV, or PHEV, ensuring that it functions properly is related to how adequately you maintain your vehicle.
While making a selection among the different types of EVs, you also need to ensure you are taking preventative steps to safeguard your investment. Purchasing comprehensive car insurance is a key component of this as it allows you to remain worry-free in case your electric car runs into trouble. Look for appropriate car insurance online that provides financial assistance against faulty batteries, accidental damage, theft and even third-party liability.
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