HYBRID & ELECTRIC CARS

FAQ

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What is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV)?

A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (otherwise known as a plug-in hybrid) is a vehicle with both an electric motor and a gasoline engine. It can be powered using both electricity and petrol or diesel. The Chevy Volt and Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV are examples of a plug-in hybrid vehicle. Most major automakers currently offer or will soon offer plug-in hybrid models.

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What is an electric vehicle (EV)?

An electric vehicle, sometimes also called a battery electric vehicle (BEV) is a car with an electric motor and battery, powered only by electricity. The Nissan Leaf and Tesla Model S are examples of an electric vehicle. 

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How do you recharge a plug-in hybrid or an electric vehicle?

All electric vehicles come with a standard 120V charging cord (like your laptop or cell phone) that you can plug-in in your garage or carport. They also can charge using a dedicated charging station that operates at 240V. Many houses already have 240V available for electric clothes dryers. You can install a 240V charging station at home, and simply plug the car into the charging station. There are thousands of 120V and 240V public charging stations all over the country, and there’s a growing number of even higher power fast-charging stations around the country. Many, but not all, electric vehicles are equipped to accept a high power fast charge.

 

How long does it take to recharge a plug-in vehicle?

It depends on how big the battery is, and whether you charge using a regular 120V outlet a 240V charging station, or a fast charger. Plug-in hybrids with smaller batteries can recharge in about 3 hours at 120V and 1.5 hrs at 240V. Electric vehicles with larger batteries can take up to 20+ hours at 120V and 4-8 hours using a 240V charger. Electric vehicles that are equipped for fast-charging can receive an 80% charge in about 20 minutes.

 

How far can I drive on a charge?

Plug-in hybrids may drive for 10-50 miles using only electricity before they start using gasoline, and can then drive for about 300 miles (depending on the size of the fuel tank, just like any other car). Electric vehicles are currently capable of anywhere between 100 miles - 480 miles of claimed range before they need to be recharged. 

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How much do these cars cost?

Costs do vary, however with the launch of the Dacia Spring prices starting from £14,995 it is becoming more affordable to buy an electric car. More range capacity, more power, and more interior technology does lead to higher prices.

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Do EV's need servicing?​

Yes EV's still need regular servicing, while there may not be engine oil to change, other components such as tyres, suspension and brakes become more important. Tyres and suspension can suffer from a higher rate of attrition than more conventional internal combustion engine vehicles, due to increased torque and overall vehicle weight. Furthermore due to the regenerative braking capabilities of the electric motors, brake pads and discs suffer from less wear which can cause components in the braking system to seize or build ups of rust to occur.

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