Types of Electric Cars: Choosing your Perfect EV

Types of Electric Cars: Choosing your Perfect EV

 

So, you’re ready to go green and zoom your way into the vibrant world of EVs. But with so many flavours to choose from - yes, it’s literally a sweet shop over here – where do you even start?

From sharp city cars to roomy family SUVs, each model features advanced tech, efficiency and a dedication to cutting emissions, letting you drive with both confidence and flair.

All-New Ford Puma Gen-E (L)

Compare electric cars: understanding EV categories

EVs come in all shapes and sizes. Categories too. But what’s the difference between them? And why do some use batteries while others take a more hybrid approach?

Whether you’re a hardcore Ford(ie) or just curious about what’s lurking beneath those boss car rides, getting to know the different types of electric vehicles is your golden ticket to one.

 

Explore four top range hybrid and electric family cars
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What types of electric cars are battery electric vehicles (BEVs)?

Call them BEV’s or Beverley’s, up to you. These ninjas are the real deal. Powered solely by rechargeable batteries, it’s bye to internal combustion engines (ICE) and hi to smog-free lungs.

Features:

  • Range: 150 – 400 miles on a single charge
  • Performance: Quick acceleration due to instant torque
  • Charging: At home or public charging stations.

Benefits:

  • Zero emissions: Climate friendly
  • Lower maintenance: Cheaper to run than petrol cars
  • Efficient drives: Quiet rides with minimal vibration.

What types of electric cars are plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs)

They might be stealth warriors. But these chameleons have it *down*. Combining internal combustion engines with an electric motor, you’ve hit the sweet spot with one. Drive electric for short journeys. Or switch to petrol for longer rides.

Features:

  • Range: 20 – 50 miles (on electric power alone)
  • Dual power source: Petrol and electric
  • Fuel economy: Great mileage when using the engine.

Benefits:

  • Reduced range anxiety: Change to petrol when needed
  • Lower emissions: Less than petrol cars (when used on electric mode)
  • Versatility: Superb for road trips and short commutes.

What types of electric cars are extended range electric vehicles (EREVs)?

EREVs are a special breed of PHEV. Excuse the acronyms. LOL. They work like BEVs for everyday driving. But when the battery’s low, a petrol engine kicks in to extend your journey. Think of them as a plan B. Need me? I’m there.

Features:

  • EV range: 30 – 60 miles on electric power
  • Optimum efficiency: Use electric power for short trips and petrol engine for longer ones
  • Smooth driving experience: Crafted for peak performance on electric mode.

Benefits:

  • Eco-friendly: Savour the perks of petrol-free drives
  • Less petrol dependency: More planet loving
  • Effectiveness: Caters to all lifestyles and preferences

What types of electric cars are hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs)?

FCEVs are the big players in town, generating power through a cool chemical dance of hydrogen and oxygen. Want to know the best part? You’re left with pure, fresh water at the end. Hurrah!

Features:

  • Range: Over 300 miles on a single hydrogen tank
  • Fast refuelling times (5 minutes): Quicker than recharging a battery
  • Zero emissions: Eco-friendly when hydrogen is produced from renewable sources.

Benefits:

  • Efficiency: Ideal if you’re on the go
  • Long range: Best for road trips where charging stations are few and far between
  • Better for the planet: Lowering your carbon footprint.

Compare electric Cars

 

Type of vehicle

Engine type

Range

Benefit

Model example

BEV

Electric motor

150-400 miles on a full charge

 

No greenhouse gas emission or need to fill up

Ford E-Transit

PHEV

Electric motor and combustion engine combined

 

20-50 miles on electric alone

Dual power source

Ford KUGA

EREV

Electric motor and combustion engine combined

 

30-60 miles on electric alone

Increased range overall

Coming soon!

FCEV

Hydrogen internal combustion engine

Over 300 miles on a single hydrogen tank

No harmful emissions and quick to fill up

Coming soon!

Ford: electric cars explained

 Ford is cranking up the fun when it comes to its EVs. So if you’re after a car that blends classic style with modern tech. Or need a shiny commuter to dazzle those naysayers in life, your EV awaits.

Electric car options

  • All-Electric Ford Mustang Mach-E: Blending Mustang spirit with an electric setup, this lustrous BEV has everything to excite sports car enthusiasts. Available as a rear-wheel drive, its GT is an absolute corker, going from 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds.
  • Ford E-Transit: With 266 horsepower and a 196-mile range. Plus, a SYNC 4 tech and Co-Pilot360 safety features, the E-Transit isn’t just a van, it’s your fast lane eco-friendly partner.

  • All-Electric Ford Explorer: This 374-mile gem is great for long distances. Along with its advanced connectivity features and driver-assistance systems, its bold design makes a huge statement. And offers plenty of storage space too.
  • All-Electric Puma Gen-E 

Want to know what makes the All-Electric Ford Mustang Mach-E a frontrunner? Get an insider’s look at its exciting performance and features.

Choosing your perfect EV

Now that you’re a whizz on all things EV, it’s time to pick the right one

But before you do, you’ll want to consider a few things first:

Driving Distance

How far is your commute? If it’s short, a BEV with a 200-mile range is fab. For longer distances, choose one with a bigger battery. Or a PHEV as they run on petrol too (when needed).

Charging options

Home charging is a game changer if you have a garage. If not, explore public charging stations in your area and along common routes. Apps like Zap-Map can help locate them.

Battery and capacity range

EVs vary in range depending on their battery size. So, if you’re jet-setting across the country, best to choose a model that exceeds your daily driving needs to reduce range anxiety.

Cost of charging

Check your local electricity rates to get an idea of home and public charging costs. EVs like the Ford Explorer and E-Transit are very efficient, so easy on the wallet. Make sure to bump them up to the top of the list when narrowing down your options.

Environmental impact

BEVs and FCEVs are like the cool cousins of glass straws and paper bags – making the planet a better place, one fun choice at a time.  By producing zero exhaust emissions, they improve air quality and reduce pollutants like nitrogen oxides, leading to better public health outcomes.

 

Explore our full range of electric and hybrid vehicles