Types of Electric Vehicles

Are you considering trading in your gas-powered vehicle for something more efficient and eco-friendly? Switching to an electric vehicle (EV) comes with many benefits. But with numerous different types of EVs on the market, it’s understandable if you’re unsure what’s right for you. After all, what suits one Seattle driver’s habits might not suit your own. 

Not to worry, as BMW Seattle is here to help you navigate the types of electric vehicles and discover what’s right for you. Whether that’s a hybrid electric vehicle, a battery electric vehicle, or something in between, you can discover it below. Read ahead to learn more about the different types of EVs.

What are the Four Types of EV? 

Bellevue drivers wanting to electrify their commutes will have four types of electric vehicles to consider. What are the four types of EV? Check them out right here:

• Hybrid Electric Vehicles: Hybrid vehicles possess an electric motor and an internal combustion engine that power the vehicle simultaneously, drastically improving gas mileage. A hybrid’s battery self-charges, so the vehicle only requires gasoline for fuel.

• Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles: A plug-in hybrid vehicle also has an internal combustion engine and an electric motor, but unlike a standard hybrid, it relies solely on electric power for certain distances, only switching to gas power when necessary. The battery in a plug-in hybrid is too large to self-charge, so it requires external charging via a 120-volt household outlet or a 240-volt EV charging station.

• Battery Electric Vehicles: A battery electric vehicle is fully electric, using only a battery and an electric motor for power. The distance it can travel on all-electric power is known as the “range,” which varies between models, but often tops 200 miles. You’ll enjoy conveniences like home and public charging options, fewer maintenance tasks, a quieter ride, and more!

• Hydrogen Electric Vehicles (Fuel Cell): Far less common than the other types of electric vehicles, fuel cell electric vehicles use a hydrogen-powered fuel cell to derive power, as opposed to relying solely on a battery. These vehicles require pure hydrogen gas, and can only be filled at hydrogen fueling stations. 

Parts Found Among the Different Types of EVs

Now you know what the four types of EV are, but what are the primary parts and components that differentiate them? Get a more in-depth understanding below, so you know what to expect before investing in any of these vehicles for your Lynnwood-area travels:

Hybrid Electric Vehicles:

• Engine
• Electric motor
• Battery pack with controller & inverter
• Fuel tank
• Control module

Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles:

• Electric motor
• Engine
• Inverter
• Battery
• Fuel tank
• Control module
• Battery charger 

Battery Electric Vehicles:

• ​​Electric motor
• Inverter
• Battery
• Control module
• Drivetrain

Hydrogen Electric Vehicles (Fuel Cell):

• Electric motor
• Fuel-cell stack
• Hydrogen storage tank
• Battery with converter and controller

Find Your Ideal Electrified Vehicle at BMW Seattle

Whether new or pre-owned, find a hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or all-electric vehicle that suits your needs at our Seattle dealership. Our team can inform you of any tax credits you could qualify for, in addition to any other EV information you may need.