Apr 2, 2023

The automotive market is in a spot where it’s quickly changing and evolving. Part of that is due to manufacturers pledging to move toward producing electric vehicles. While EVs aren’t necessarily new, recent changes in laws and regulations have seen a boom in EV production. So if you’re in the market for a new vehicle, you might be wondering about the different types of electric vehicles. Before you buy, follow Carnamic’s guide to types of electric vehicles to stay informed and make the best decision for you.

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Hybrid Electric Vehicles

Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) combine electric technology with a traditional combustion engine. A battery and electric motor supplement the use of gasoline, reducing emissions and the need for fossil fuels. Hybrids use regenerative braking to charge the battery, which translates the energy of the moving vehicle into energy that goes into the battery. Examples of HEVs include the Kia Sorento Hybrid and Hyundai Elantra.

Battery Electric Vehicles

A battery electric vehicle (BEV) completely eliminates the need for a combustion engine. One or more electric motors and batteries power the vehicle all on their own without the need for fuel. BEVs must be charged by an external power source, like a home or public charging station, often traveling over 200 or 300 miles on a single charge. BEV examples include the Nissan Leaf and Hyundai IONIQ.

Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles

A plug-in hybrid is a mix between an HEV and BEV. It utilizes an electric motor, battery, and combustion engine. But unlike an HEV, the battery is charged more like a BEV – that is, you plug it in at a power source. PHEVs typically have a longer range than a regular hybrid and often have more versatility. There are currently several PHEVs on the market, like the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and Hyundai Tucson Plug-In Hybrid.

Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles

Fuel cell electric vehicles haven’t taken off in the United States yet, but technology is still being developed overseas to produce a truly zero-emission electric vehicle. FCEVs use a different fuel source – hydrogen – to power the battery. That means that they don’t require an external charging method and instead use a hydrogen fuel tank for power. Although there aren’t as many FCEVs as other types of electric vehicles, you can find some for sale in the U.S. like the Hyundai Nexo.

Hyundai Nexo Hydrogen EV REfueling
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV with Plug-In Hybrid EV Badge

Find Your EV at Carnamic

Are you considering an electric vehicle? Want to know more about how they work? View our new and pre-owned EV lineup available at Carnamic! We’d love to tell you more about electric vehicle ownership and its benefits, so contact us today to learn more and find out which EV might be right for you.