Hybrids and EVs Now Make Up 46% of New Car Sales: A First-Time Buyer’s Guide to Choosing Between PHEV and Pure BEV Tech
Try to keep the same point but with completely different wording. As purchasers move toward less polluting vehicles, we are beginning to see electric cars become available for consumers in significant quantities. In fact, the hybrid and electric vehicle segment is now almost half of new car sales throughout many developed areas of our world. However, there has been a growing trend for new vehicle purchasers to consider not only a hybrid (PHEV) as part of their plan but also a true battery/electric vehicle (BEV).
What Is a PHEV?
A PHEV is a combination of an:
- Electric motor
- Rechargeable battery
- Gasoline (Petrol) engine.
It is possible to drive a relatively close distance on only battery-power until the battery is near depletion and then switch over to using the gasoline engine.
Advantages
- More fuel efficient than ICE
- No range limitation when driving
- Long distance travel is simple to do
- Easy to recharge at home
Drawbacks
- More complex drivetrain (compared to solely electric vehicles)
- More difficult to maintain (relative to solely electric vehicles)
- Still requires access to gasoline
What Is a BEV?
A Battery Electric Vehicle runs entirely on electricity and has no petrol engine.
BEVs rely on rechargeable battery packs and public or home charging infrastructure.
Advantages
- Zero tailpipe emissions
- Lower running costs
- Fewer moving parts
- Quieter driving experience
Drawbacks
- Lack of available charging stations varies by geographical area
- More time required to recharge than to refuel
- Greater dependence on battery range than PHEVs.
Which One Is Better for First-Time Buyers?
If you take many long distance journeys often:
A PHEV is a good choice (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) if you regularly drive long distances and can’t find an electric charging station close to your home, and/or want to ease yourself into driving an electric vehicle.
A BEV may be a good choice (Battery Electric Vehicle) if most of your travelling is done within a short distance (.i.e. around your immediate area), you can charge your car at home, and you want to reduce your costs associated with running a car.
Final Words
Your choice of vehicle (i.e. electric automobile) depends on your driving patterns, charging availability at your residence, and available budget. If you want to fully commit to electric mobility, the saving and/or the environment benefits will be maximized with the purchase of a BEV. Nevertheless, PHEVs will continue to serve as a practical means for people seeking a electric vehicle with the benefit of having the flexibility of either a traditional fuel or an electric one depending upon the distance and/or ease of charging opportunities while taking a long distance road trip.
FAQs
What do the initials “PHEV” stand for?
PHEVs are “plug-in hybrid electric vehicle”.
What do the initials “BEV” stand for?
BEVs are “battery electric vehicle”.
Which type vehicle costs more to operate?
Generally speaking, BEVs will have the lowest cost of operation and maintenance.
Will a PHEV also operate using gas?
Yes; with a PHEV vehicle, you have the option of using both electricity and gas to power the vehicle.
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