What are the different types of electric vehicles: BEVs, HEVs, FCEVs, & PHEVs

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09 Jun 2023

Types of electric vehicles

The automobile market is changing, and every big, minor, and prospective vehicle manufacturing firm is transitioning toward the use of electric vehicles, sometimes known as EVs. Electric cars use one or more electric motors pushed by a battery system to let drivers accelerate and operate a vehicle. EVs are typically powered by electric batteries, although some cars combine an electric motor with additional power sources to move the vehicle. Whether you intend to purchase a new EV or improve your current car, you should educate yourself on the many types of electric vehicles.

This article will help you comprehend the many types of electric vehicles on the market.

What are the various types of electric vehicles in India?

Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV)

This type of electric vehicle, also known as an All-Electric Vehicle, is powered by energy stored in a battery. Users must charge it by connecting the vehicle to the power grid. The completely charged battery powers the electric motors, which allow the vehicle to start. As a consequence, this EV produces no pollutants.

BEV components

  • Battery pack

  • Inverter

  • Electric motor

  • Control module

  • Charge port

  • Drive train

Vehicles in the BEV category includes:

  • Tata Nexon EV, Tigor EV

  • Mahindra e2o PLUS and eVerito

  • Hyundai KONA

  • MG ZS EV

Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV)

The term hybrid electric motor can also refer to a parallel or conventional hybrid. It has an IC engine and an electric motor. The latter is powered by energy stored in a battery pack. The battery delivers electricity to the electric motor while the fuel tank drives the engine. Together, the engine and electric motor rotate the gearbox, which turns the wheels of the car.

Components of HEVs

  • Internal Combustion Engine

  • Electric motor

  • Inverter

  • Battery pack

  • Control module

  • Fuel tank

  • Drive train

  • Charge port

Vehicles under the HEV category:

  • Toyota Camry Hybrid and Prius Hybrid

  • MG Hector

  • Honda Civic Hybrid

  • Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza

Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV)

PHEVs are an upgraded version of HEVs. They have both an internal combustion engine as well as an electric motor. Until the battery's charge runs out, this car runs on energy. It operates as a non-plug-in hybrid after the battery charge is complete. This car may be charged either by hooking it into a separate electric grid or by regenerative braking.

Components of PHEVs

  • Internal combustion engine

  • Electric motor

  • Inverter

  • Battery pack

  • Control module

  • Fuel tank

  • Drive train

  • Exhaust system

  • Charge port

Vehicles under the PHEV category:

  • Mini Cooper SE Countryman

  • Porsche Cayenne and Panamera S E-hybrid

  • BMW 330e

  • Chevy Volt

  • Ford C-Max Energi

Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV)

These EVs are sometimes referred to as Zero-Emission Vehicles. In order to generate the electricity needed to power the automobile, this sort of EV employs "fuel cell technology," which converts the chemical energy of the fuel into electric power. It doesn't require using the external electric grid to charge, like BEV.

Components of FCEV

  • Battery pack

  • Electric motor(s)

  • Inverter

  • Control module

  • Drive train

  • Fuel cell stack

  • Fuel tank

Vehicles under the FCEV category:

  • Hyundai Tucson FCEV and Nexo

  • Toyota Mirai

  • Honda Clarity Fuel Cell

  • Riversimple Rasa

Conclusion

Understanding the specifics of the different types of electric vehicles will make it easier for car fans to switch to EVs and save the environment via practically zero fuel emissions without sacrificing driving performance. Always remember to purchase car insurance regardless of the vehicle variant you are opting for.

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Team Kotak GIC

The content of this blog has been created and carefully reviewed by the esteemed team at Kotak General Insurance, with the sole purpose of providing valuable guidance and sharing insights on the importance of general insurance. Our objective is to assist users in making informed decisions when purchasing or renewing insurance policies for their cars, bikes, and health. Our expertly curated information aims to empower our readers with the knowledge they need to protect their valuable assets and financial interests.