Page 3 - Current Energy - Summer 2019

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ELECTRIC VEHICLES 101

Electric vehicles, plug-in electric vehicles (also known as If this range is not sufficient, a plug-in electric vehicle (PHEV)
electric cars or EVs) have different capabilities that can may be a better choice. PHEVs run on electricity for shorter
accommodate different drivers’ needs. ranges (6 to 40 miles), then switch over to an internal
combustion engine running on gasoline when the battery is
There are two basic types of EVs: all-electric vehicles (AEVs), depleted. The flexibility of PHEVs allows drivers to use electricity
run only on electricity. They receive electricity by plugging as often as possible while also being able to fuel up with
into the electric grid and store it in batteries. There is no gasoline if needed. Powering the vehicle with electricity from
petroleum-based fuel and no emissions. The other type the grid reduces fuel costs, cuts petroleum consumption, and
is called a plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), it uses reduces tailpipe emissions. When driving distances are longer
batteries to power an electric motor, plugs into grid, but also than the all-electric range, PHEVs act like hybrid electric
uses a petroleum-based or alternative fuel for power to its vehicles, consuming less fuel and producing fewer emissions
combustion engine. Which type of vehicle will fit your lifestyle than similar conventional vehicles. Depending on the model,
depends on your needs and driving habits. the internal combustion engine may also power the vehicle
at other times, such as during rapid acceleration or when
Most all AEVs have all-electric ranges of 80 to 100 miles, while using heating or air conditioning.
a few luxury models have ranges up to 250 miles. When the
battery is depleted, it can take from 30 minutes (with fast
charging) up to nearly a full day (with Level 1 charging) to
recharge it, depending on the type of charger and battery.

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