Umair Gaines
Plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) are motor vehicles with rechargeable batteries that can be charged from an external power source. They are also known as grid-enabled vehicles (GEVs) or electrically chargeable vehicles (ECVs). PEVs include battery electric vehicles (BEVs), plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs), and electric vehicle conversions of hybrid electric vehicles and conventional internal combustion engine vehicles. BEVs are fully electric vehicles with rechargeable batteries and no gasoline engine, while PHEVs have both an engine and an electric motor, with rechargeable batteries that can be restored to full charge by connecting a plug to an external power source. PHEVs can be powered by a combination of grid electricity and liquid fuel, and they can switch to gasoline power when the battery is depleted. PEVs have several benefits compared to conventional internal combustion engine vehicles, including lower operating and maintenance costs, and reduced air pollution.
Characteristics and Values of Plug-in Electric Vehicles
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | Any motor vehicle with rechargeable battery packs that can be charged from the electric grid |
| Other Names | Plug-in electric vehicles are also called grid-enabled vehicles (GEVs) or electrically chargeable vehicles (ECVs) |
| Types | Plug-in electric vehicles include battery electric vehicles (BEVs), plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs), and electric vehicle conversions of hybrid electric vehicles and conventional internal combustion engine vehicles |
| Benefits | Plug-in electric vehicles have lower operating and maintenance costs, and produce little to no air pollution, thus reducing societal dependence on fossil fuels and significantly decreasing greenhouse gas emissions |
| Limitations | Recharging takes longer than refueling and is heavily reliant on charging infrastructure |
| Sales | Battery electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles account for over 1% of new vehicle sales in the US |
| Fuel Consumption | Fuel consumption in PHEVs depends on the distance driven between battery charges |
| Power Source | PHEVs use batteries to power an electric motor and another fuel, such as gasoline or diesel, to power an internal combustion engine |
| Charging | PHEV batteries can be charged using a wall outlet or charging equipment, by the internal combustion engine, or through regenerative braking |
| Exhaust System | The exhaust system channels exhaust gases from the engine out through the tailpipe |
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What You'll Learn
Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs)
PHEVs operate as all-electric vehicles when the battery has a sufficient charge and switch to gasoline power when the battery is depleted. The vehicle typically runs on electric power until the battery is nearly depleted, and then the car automatically switches over to use the ICE. PHEVs can be charged using a wall outlet or charging equipment, by the ICE, or through regenerative braking. During braking, the electric motor acts as a generator, using the energy to charge the battery, thereby recapturing energy that would have been lost.
PHEVs have several benefits compared to conventional internal combustion engine vehicles. They have lower operating and maintenance costs and produce little to no air pollution when under all-electric mode, thus reducing societal dependence on fossil fuels and significantly decreasing greenhouse gas emissions. PHEVs are a good option for those who want the benefits of an electric vehicle but are concerned about the limited range of all-electric vehicles.
PHEV fuel consumption depends on the distance driven between battery charges. If the vehicle is never plugged in to charge, fuel economy will be similar to a similarly-sized hybrid electric vehicle. If the vehicle is driven a shorter distance than its all-electric range and plugged in to charge between trips, it may be possible to use only electric power. Therefore, consistently charging the vehicle is the best way to maximize the electric benefits.
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Battery electric vehicles (BEVs)
Plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) are a subcategory of electric vehicles that include battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs). BEVs are electric vehicles that use electrical energy exclusively from an on-board battery pack to power one or more electric traction motors, on which the vehicle solely relies for propulsion. This definition excludes hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) which use internal combustion engines (ICEs) in adjunct to electric motors for propulsion. BEVs have no fuel tanks and replenish their energy storage by plugging into a charging station, electrical grid, or getting a new battery at a battery swap station.
BEVs include automobiles, light trucks, and neighbourhood electric vehicles. They also include battery-driven electric cars, buses, trucks, forklifts, motorcycles, scooters, bicycles, skateboards, railcars, boats, and personal watercraft, although the term usually refers specifically to passenger cars. BEVs are very quiet because no combustion noise is produced. They are also very safe to operate and charge. The vehicle inlet and charging equipment are required to be safety tested, certified, and listed by Underwriter’s Laboratory (UL).
BEVs are also more environmentally friendly than traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. They produce no tailpipe emissions and contribute significantly to reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. A study by the American Lung Association of California found that gasoline vehicles are responsible for $37 billion in health and climate costs each year. BEVs also have lower operating costs. Electricity is generally cheaper than gasoline or diesel, and BEVs have fewer moving parts, resulting in lower maintenance costs.
BEVs can be more expensive upfront compared to conventional vehicles, although this is offset by lower operating costs over time. Examples of BEVs include the Nissan Leaf, which offers a balance of affordability and range, and the Tesla Model S, known for its long range, impressive performance, and advanced technology.
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Electric vehicle conversions
Plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) are any motor vehicles with rechargeable battery packs that can be charged from the electric grid. They are also referred to as grid-enabled vehicles (GEVs) or, in Europe, electrically chargeable vehicles (ECVs). PEVs include battery electric vehicles (BEVs), plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs), and electric vehicle conversions of hybrid electric vehicles and conventional internal combustion engine vehicles.
Although uncommon, a conventional vehicle can be converted to an all-electric vehicle. Such conversions provide options beyond what is available from original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). Certified installers can convert heavy-duty vehicles to operate on electricity alone or to improve the efficiency of conventional vehicle designs. Vehicles that have a gross weight rating of less than 10,000 pounds, use more than 48 volts of electricity, and have a maximum speed greater than 25 miles per hour must meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 305 ("Electric Powered Vehicles: Electrolyte Spillage and Electrical Shock Prevention").
A vehicle with an internal combustion engine can be converted to an all-electric vehicle by removing the engine and adding a battery pack, one or more electric motors, high-voltage cables, and instrumentation. This process typically involves completely removing the engine and replacing it with a battery pack, electric motor, and other necessary components. The battery pack provides the energy to power the electric motor, which then drives the wheels of the vehicle.
Converting a conventional vehicle to an all-electric vehicle can be a complex and time-consuming process, depending on the type of vehicle and the desired level of performance. It may involve modifying the vehicle's chassis, suspension, and other components to accommodate the new electric powertrain. Additionally, the electrical system may need to be upgraded to handle the higher voltage and current requirements of the electric motor.
It is important to note that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Air Resources Board (CARB) do not require EV conversions to be certified, as long as the conversion does not add a device that produces fuel combustion emissions. However, it is always recommended to check with local regulations and standards to ensure that any conversion work complies with the necessary safety and emissions requirements.
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Plug-in vs conventional hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs)
Plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) are motor vehicles with rechargeable battery packs that can be charged from the electric grid. They include battery electric vehicles (BEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), and electric vehicle conversions of hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) and conventional internal combustion engine vehicles. PHEVs are powered by a combination of grid electricity and liquid fuel, and they can be charged by plugging into a charging station or a home charging system.
On the other hand, HEVs are conventional hybrid electric vehicles that have a battery that is continually recharged with power from the internal combustion engine and regenerative braking. However, they cannot be recharged from an off-vehicle electric energy source and, therefore, do not belong to the category of plug-in electric vehicles. HEVs get their power from a gas (or diesel) internal combustion engine and one or more electric motors that draw their power from energy stored in a battery. The battery is charged through regenerative braking and the engine itself, not by plugging in.
While PHEVs can be charged externally, HEVs do not have this option. PHEVs can operate in all-electric mode for extended periods, typically between 20 and 40 miles on electricity alone, and they have larger, more powerful batteries and engines than HEVs. PHEVs are a good option for those seeking an electric car but needing a gasoline option for long trips. HEVs, on the other hand, may be preferred by those wanting great mileage without the need to plug in their car.
In terms of emissions, PHEVs can be a purely electric option for shorter trips, reducing air pollution and dependence on fossil fuels. However, when the battery runs out, the vehicle switches to gasoline power, still producing emissions. HEVs, while having lower emissions than regular gas-powered vehicles, still produce emissions and run on gas in most conditions.
Both PHEVs and HEVs have their advantages and suit different use cases and driver preferences. PHEVs offer more flexibility with their ability to switch between electric and gasoline power, while HEVs offer improved fuel efficiency without the need for external charging.
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Benefits of plug-in electric vehicles
Plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) have several benefits compared to conventional internal combustion engine vehicles. They are a subset of electric vehicles and include all-electric/battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs).
Environmental Benefits
One of the most significant advantages of PEVs is their positive impact on the environment. PEVs produce little to no harmful tailpipe emissions, such as particulates (soot), volatile organic compounds, hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and various oxides of nitrogen. This leads to improved air quality and a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, helping to address global environmental degradation.
Cost-Effectiveness
PEVs are more cost-effective than traditional vehicles. They have lower operating and maintenance costs due to reduced fuel consumption and fewer moving parts, resulting in less frequent servicing. Additionally, electricity costs are generally lower than the price of gasoline or diesel, and renewable energy sources can further reduce expenses and increase eco-friendliness.
Convenience and Efficiency
PEVs offer convenience and efficiency in charging. They can be charged at home or public charging stations, eliminating the need for frequent trips to fuel stations. The ability to plan journeys in advance and utilize fast chargers or battery swapping services enhances their practicality.
Silence and Comfort
The absence of a traditional engine makes PEVs remarkably quiet, reducing noise pollution. This silent operation has led to the addition of false sounds to ensure the safety of pedestrians.
Government Incentives
To promote the adoption of PEVs, governments worldwide offer various incentives, including tax breaks, reduced acquisition taxes, and bonuses for vehicles with low carbon dioxide emissions. These incentives make PEVs more affordable and encourage a shift towards environmentally friendly transportation.
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Frequently asked questions
A plug-in electric vehicle (PEV) is any motor vehicle with rechargeable battery packs that can be charged from the electric grid, and the electricity stored on board drives or contributes to driving the wheels for propulsion.
The two main types of plug-in electric vehicles are:
- All-electric or battery electric vehicles (BEVs)
- Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs)
Plug-in electric vehicles have several benefits compared to conventional internal combustion engine vehicles. They have lower operating and maintenance costs, and produce little to no air pollution, thus reducing societal dependence on fossil fuels and significantly decreasing greenhouse gas emissions.
