Electric Vehicle FAQ (EV FAQ)

1. What’s the difference between a hybrid and an electric car?

  • Hybrid (HEV): Uses both gas and electric power; can’t be plugged in.
  • Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV): Can run on electric power alone for short distances, then switches to gas.
  • Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV): 100% electric; no gas engine at all.

2. How long does it take to charge an EV?

  • Level 1 (120V): ~3–5 miles of range per hour (slowest).
  • Level 2 (240V): ~20–30 miles of range per hour.
  • DC Fast Charging: ~80% charge in 20–45 minutes depending on the car and charger

3. What is the average range of an EV?

  • Most new EVs have a range of 200–350 miles.
  • Premium models (like Tesla or Lucid) can exceed 400+ miles.
  • Range depends on driving style, temperature, and terrain.

4. Are EVs more expensive than gas cars?

  • Upfront cost can be higher, but:
    ○ You save on fuel and maintenance.
    ○ Federal and local tax credits or rebates may apply (up to $7,500 in the U.S.).
    ○ Total cost of ownership over time is often lower.

5. How often do EV batteries need to be replaced?

  • Most EV batteries last 10–15 years or 100,000–300,000 miles.
  • Many manufacturers offer 8–10 year battery warranties.

6. Can I charge an EV at home?

  • Yes!
    ○ Level 1: Plug into a regular wall outlet (slow).
    ○ Level 2: Install a home charger for much faster charging.

7. What happens if I run out of battery?

  • Just like running out of gas—car stops.
  • You’ll need a tow to a charger, or some roadside services now offer mobile charging.

8. Are there enough charging stations?

  • Infrastructure is growing fast, especially in urban areas and highways.
  • Use apps like PlugShare, ChargePoint, Tesla Supercharger map, or ABRP (A Better Route Planner) to find stations.

9. Are EVs good for long road trips?

  • Yes—with some planning.
  • Many EVs support fast charging, and charging networks (like Tesla Superchargers, Electrify America) cover major routes.

10. Are EVs really better for the environment?

  • Over their lifetime, yes.
    ○ EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions.
    ○ Even accounting for electricity generation, they generally have a lower carbon footprint than gas vehicles—especially if charged from renewable sources.

Basic EV Types

  • BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle): Fully electric; no gas engine. Runs only on electricity (e.g., Tesla Model 3, Nissan Leaf).
  • PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle): Has both an electric motor and a gasoline engine. Can be plugged in to charge (e.g., Toyota Prius Prime).
  • HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle): Can’t be plugged in; recharges the battery via braking and the engine (e.g., standard Toyota Prius).
  • FCEV (Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle): Uses hydrogen to generate electricity (e.g., Toyota Mirai).

Battery & Charging Terms

  • kWh (Kilowatt-hour): Measures battery capacity. More kWh = longer range.
  • kW (Kilowatt): Measures power (used for charging speed and motor output).
  • Level 1 Charging: Slowest—uses a standard 120V outlet (like charging your phone overnight).
  • Level 2 Charging: Faster—240V, common in homes with special chargers and public stations.
  • DC Fast Charging: Super-fast—can charge 80% in ~20–45 minutes, depending on the car.
  • Regenerative Braking: Converts braking energy back into stored electricity.
  • Range: How far the EV can travel on a full charge.