Human-caused climate change — primarily from burning fossil fuels — is having serious impacts on people, ecosystems, and the economy. Driving an EV can help us move away from that harmful status quo.
The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt EV has a lot going for it, including a 262 mile range on a single charge and a 10-to-80% charge time of just 26 minutes. Our editors loved it during a test drive.
Battery-only EVs
All-electric vehicles run solely on electricity stored in a battery and can be recharged from external sources. They are known as battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and include light-duty cars, medium-duty vehicles such as trucks, buses and vans, and even electric micromobility devices like e-bikes. Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) use a gas-powered engine to recharge the battery and allow for longer range driving, but they can also operate for short trips with only the electric motor. 1
Lithium-ion batteries are the most common technology used in EVs today. They provide high energy density, low cost and weight, and can withstand many charge cycles.
Hybrid EVs
In hybrid electric vehicles, an internal combustion engine drives the vehicle for short distances while a battery powers the rest of the trip. They produce fewer emissions than gasoline-only cars and have lower maintenance costs due to the regenerative braking system.
In the United States, hybrid vehicles are taxed at a lower rate than gas-powered cars. In some countries, like the Netherlands, HEVs are eligible for free parking in city council parking buildings. Additionally, they are exempt from the daily congestion charge in the centre of London.
Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) use a larger battery than regular hybrids and can be plugged in to recharge. They can also operate as a traditional hybrid by using the engine to charge the battery during braking, or when their all-electric range is depleted. The fuel economy of PHEVs is measured in terms of miles per gallon equivalent, similar to MPG for gasoline-powered vehicles. However, just like MPG, your actual driving range may vary depending on conditions and accessory use.
Plug-in hybrids
PHEVs take hybrid cars a step further with larger traction batteries that can be recharged at home or public AC charging stations (and also via energy generated during braking). This extends the electric-only driving range, allowing drivers to often travel significantly distances on pure electricity before the gasoline engine is called upon.
Like hybrids, PHEVs produce significantly fewer emissions. However, when operating in a hybrid-only mode, they are forced to use the internal combustion engine well below its peak efficiency, which can be frustrating.
PHEVs are best for homeowners who can install a home Level 2 charger and regularly plug their car in at night, or those who live near a public DC fast charger. Otherwise, they may need to get used to planning road trips differently, leapfrogging from charger to charger as the trip progresses — something not everyone is eager to do. But if you’re willing to invest in the right vehicle and stick with it, a PHEV can save you significant money over time.
Electric cars
Electric cars (often called “all-electric” or BEVs) drive using electricity stored in a battery. They can be charged at home via a standard 120-volt outlet or a faster 208 to 240-volt home charging system or a public fast charger with direct current (DCFC). Brakes also recharge the battery through regenerative braking. EVs require minimal scheduled maintenance to their electrical systems and have fewer moving parts than gasoline vehicles.
Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV) and PHEVs combine an electric motor with a traditional gas engine. Their large batteries allow for a significant all-electric driving range, while their gas engines take over when they’re needed. HEVs and PHEVs still require regular oil changes, spark plug and wire replacement, exhaust system maintenance and a host of other routine upkeep, but at much less frequency.
EVs emit no tailpipe emissions and significantly reduce the environmental impact of driving by eliminating the need for the mining, pumping, refining and transporting of fossil fuels. Many models also offer long battery warranties and great financing options.