The ultimate guide to Electric Cars - We answer your questions on owning an electric or hybrid vehicle. 

 

How do electric cars work?

Electric cars are powered purely by electricity as they don’t rely on petrol or diesel. The electricity is stored in rechargeable batteries that control the electric motors which then power the wheels. The battery can then be charged via a wall socket (at home) or dedicated charging point (found at multiple locations).

 

What does BEV stand for?

BEV stands for Battery Electric Vehicles. These vehicles are also referred to a “all-electric” vehicles as they required no fuel to run.

 

Are electric cars noisy?

No, electric cars omit less noise due to the absence of a gas-powered engine.

 

Who makes electric cars?

 

There’s a wide choice of electric vehicles available to buy from a variety of manufacturers – EV options will continue to grow over the coming years. A couple of the top manufacturers with an electrical vehicle offer are Jaguar, BMW, MINI, Vauxhall, Audi, Nissan, Renault, Tesla, Audi, Mercedes, Skoda, Maserati, Seat, Kia, Fiat, Peugeot, Volkswagen, Honda, Volvo and Ford

 

How fast can electric cars go?

 

Electrifyingly fast. As electric cars don’t need a traditional gearbox the instant torque provide by the electric motors can see EVs reach from 0-60mph in under 3 seconds

 

How far can an electric car travel?

 

On Average, most electric vehicles can travel about 100 miles before needing recharged, however premium EVs like the Jaguar i-Pace (awarded 2019 World Car of the Year) can travel up to 250 miles.

 

How long do electric cars last?

Electric cars are designed for extended life and will last longer than traditional fuel cars as there will be fewer mechanical problems. Most EV batteries are warranted for 8 years/100,000 miles.

 

How environmentally friendly are electric cars?

EVs provide a variety of eco-friendly benefits for the environment as they don’t emit as much carbon emissions as traditional fuel cars and have limited noise pollution

 

Are they safe to drive?

Electric cars are as safe to drive as conventional vehicles

 

What is a PHEV car?

PHEV stands for Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle.

 

Difference between a PHEV and BEV?

The main difference is that a PHEV operates by both battery and fuel – the car will typically run on electric power until the battery becomes depleted allowing the car to automatically switch to fuel to continue the journey whereas a BEV care operate solely by battery and will need recharged once  the battery becomes depleted.