Electric vehicles (EVs) have a battery and electric motor used alone or in combination with a gas engine. All EV batteries are charged by plugging into an external power source. EVs are divided into three categories:
- Battery electric vehicles use only the energy stored in their rechargeable battery packs to power an electric motor and have a range of about 60 to 290 miles. Manufacturers include Chevrolet, Ford, Mitsubishi, Nissan and Tesla.
- Hybrid electric vehicles use an electric motor and an internal combustion engine, which provide a range of about 500 miles using both the electric motor and the internal combustion engine. Manufacturers include Ford and Toyota.
- Extended-range electric vehicles have battery packs, allowing for all-electric driving for about 40 miles. Once battery life is depleted, the vehicle uses a gas-powered generator to extend the driving range an additional 300-plus miles. Manufacturers include Chevrolet, Cadillac and VIA.
Use these websites to learn more about EVs:
