What Is EV?
An introduction to the 3 types of Electric Vehicles
“EV” is a shortened acronym for Electric Vehicle. Generally, they operate on an electric motor, instead of an internal-combustion engine that generates power by burning a mix of fuel and gases. For this reason, they are a viable eco-friendly alternative to traditional cars that require petrol, especially to address environmental issues including rising pollution, global warming and depleting natural resources.
What Are the Types of EVs?
The three main types of EVs are Battery Electric Vehicles, Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles and Hybrid Electric Vehicles.
Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs)
Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) are also known as “all-electric” or “full-electric” cars because they are powered exclusively by electricity, which means all energy to run the vehicle comes from the battery pack which is recharged from the grid.
Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs)
Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) are electric vehicles that combine an engine and an electric motor. Like hybrid electric vehicles, they can recharge their battery through regenerative braking. However, they differ from regular hybrids by having much larger battery packs and more powerful electric motors.
Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs)
Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) are electric vehicles that combine both a conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) with an electric motor and battery pack to reduce fuel consumption.
HEV technology automatically charges the battery through regenerative braking and activates the electric motor system when conditions are suitable, meaning drivers do not have to monitor the charge. In terms of driving experience, hybrid vehicles are most similar to ICE vehicles because owners can only top them up with petrol.
Why Switch to EV?
1. Low Running Cost & Easier Maintenance
In terms of petrol costs, it’s estimated that EV owners enjoy around 20% to 30% more savings compared to those who own a car with an internal combustion engine (ICE) to cover the same range of mileage.
2. Safe and Smooth Driving Experience
An increasing number of research has shown that electric vehicles are at least as safe as petrol-powered and diesel-powered cars.
3. Zero Emissions
Electric vehicles produce significantly fewer emissions than petrol-powered cars. Thanks to regenerative braking technology, EVs have no tailpipe emissions and use the brakes much less frequently, achieving zero emissions and aiding in lowering CO2 and other harmful greenhouse gases.
4. High Mileage Range
Most EVs in 2022 have a comfortable range of over 320 kilometres from a full charge and can get you a very long way. For example, the Nissan LEAF e+ provides up to 340 kilometres, while the Volkswagen ID. 4 Pro has an EPA-estimated range of up to 450 kilometres on a single charge.
5. Benefit from Tax Incentives
As of January 2022, EV producers in Malaysia can enjoy a variety of tax incentives including tax exemptions for imports, excise and sales. As part of the government’s efforts to lower the cost of adoption of zero-emission vehicles, consumers can claim tax relief for owning an EV.
