A BEV is an Electric Vehicle (EV) that relies solely on chemical energy stored in rechargeable battery packs for propulsion. Traditional internal combustion engines (ICEs) are replaced with motor controllers and electric motors in BEVs for quieter, smoother and more efficient driving.

The high performance and efficiency of electric powertrains allows HEVs and PHEVs to considerably lower gasoline expenses when compared to similar gasoline-powered vehicles.

The fuel efficiency of HEVs and PHEVs employ different metrics from traditional vehicles as they can be either powered partially or fully with electricity.

Kilowatt-hours (kWh) per 100 miles and miles per gallon of gasoline-equivalent (MPGe) are the most prevalent ones. Currently available EVs, as well as PHEVs (when in all-electric mode), boast up to 130 MPGe and need just 25 to 40 kWh to go as far as 100 miles. Range and efficiency are subject to how vehicles are driven, much like a traditional gasoline-powered vehicle.

Since the electric grid is close to most places where people park, EVs and PHEVs have the advantage of flexible charging. They can charge at home, a multi-unit residence, work, or any available charging station. There are multiple charging networks available nationwide, and convenient apps to help plan your route or find a nearby charging station.

PHEVs can be more flexible for some drivers as they can also be refilled with diesel or gasoline fuel when the need arises to travel longer distances between charges.

Electric vehicles help us achieve a net-zero emission balance by reducing greenhouse gas emissions generated when using fossil fuels like gasoline to power vehicles. While gasoline-powered vehicles have much lower emissions than in the past, they still generate a large amount of greenhouse gas emissions.

You can minimize your greenhouse emissions even more if you have a solar PV (photovoltaic) system to charge your vehicle, or if your area is served by renewable energy sources such as solar, wind or hydroelectric power.

Most vehicle manufacturers offer long battery warranties on their electric vehicles – often up to ten years from the date of purchase. EV batteries typically can last anywhere from 10–20 years before needing a replacement, though that can vary depending on vehicle mileage and usage.

EV batteries undergo a ‘discharge’ cycle when you are driving and a ‘charge’ cycle when plugged in. This affects the amount of charge the battery can store when this process is repeated at various states of charge. The average time needed to charge an EV battery can vary depending on how large the battery in the vehicle is, the voltage amount the car can accept, the voltage/type of the charger being used, and other external factors like ambient temperature.