We’ll keep it short, but we promise not to abbreviate this entire article in the same way the automotive industry has with its electric vehicle terms.
Electric Vehicles Terms Unplugged
Electric cars and vans come in a growing variety of types, each with its own technology and, of course, its own acronym-heavy label. The terms describe how the vehicle is powered, not what kind of vehicle it is, so at least they’re universal. Now, before the acronyms start to blur together, here’s our breakdown of the terms to help familiarise yourself.
BEV – Battery Electric Vehicle
- What is BEV? A car that runs only on battery power. No engine, no liquid fuel, no oil changes, no fumes. You know, just a pure electric ethos.
- Best way to charge BEV You’ll always need electricity. A home socket is bliss for this. Then there are fast chargers that can juice your car pretty quickly.
- BEV Perks: Zero tailpipe emissions (guilt-free driving). The range is usually an impressive 150–400 miles, depending on the size and sort of battery.
- Heads-up: Infrastructure’s getting better, but long trips still need planning. Don’t assume infinite range just yet.
PHEV – Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle
- What is a PHEV? A compromise. That’s what. It runs on electric and petrol. For those who are just not ready to fully transition.
- Electric range: Likely enough for a daily commute and plenty enough to get you home (20-50 miles).
- How does PHEV work? Once the battery’s flat, the petrol engine jumps in. Keep it charged to reap the benefits.
- Downside: More components = more weight, more maintenance, more things that could go wrong.
HEV – Hybrid Electric Vehicle
- What are HEVs: Not fully EV but more eco-friendly than pure petrol. The electric part is just an assistant to the main engine.
- Charging: No plug. Uses regenerative braking and the engine to charge the battery.
- Perks: Instant fuel savings and lower emissions without worrying about charging.
- Heads-up: Still burns petrol. It’s not zero-emission except in your dreams.
FCEV – Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle
- What is a FCEV? Pretty much a spaceship. It runs on hydrogen that turns into electricity, emitting only water vapor.
- Perks: Lightning-fast refueling and longer range than most BEVs.
- Anti-perks: Hydrogen stations are rare. Only a few markets support this tech.
MHEV - Mild hybrid electric vehicle
- MHEV is a car with a traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) (usually petrol or diesel) that’s supported by a small electric motor and battery.
- Uplift: It gives the engine a green boost during acceleration, cruising, or when the car needs extra power.
- Worth it? It is if you drive a lot in cities with start-stop traffic
Which EVs are Right for You?
| You 👇 | Go for...👇 |
| City-dweller, easy commute | BEV – Clean, quiet, cheap to charge |
| Want electric feel + petrol backup | PHEV – Flexibility without fuel anxiety |
| Hate charging, but want savings | HEV – Simple hybrid convenience |
| Tech-head or fleet elite | FCEV – Future-ready (if you can refuel) |
Summit Drive’s Advice on EVs
- Don’t dive in. Explore the options, test the range, assess your route, and check charger access.
- BEVs may well be the future but PHEVs are still great stepping stones.
- Remember, charging at home is convenient and a cash saver. Public charging? Prepare for queues and costs.
Know your BEV from your PHEV! If you’re still unsure which electric vehicle is for you Summit Drive can advise. Get in touch.
