Explore Different Types of Electric Vehicles

If you are looking to upgrade to a vehicle that is efficient and better for the environment, you’ll find that there are many types of electric vehicles on the market for you to choose from. How many types of electric vehicles are there? There are hybrid electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, battery-powered electric vehicles, and fuel cell electric models currently available. With so many different types of electric vehicles, it can be a little difficult to decide which is the best fit with your Atlanta-area lifestyle and driving needs. In this guide from BMW of Gwinnett Place, we’ll explore the different types of electric vehicles so you can make an informed decision as to which is the right one for you. When you’re ready to buy or lease an electric vehicle, stop by our dealership in Duluth to check out our electric BMW inventory today!

How Many Types of Electric Vehicles Are There?

There are basically four types of electric vehicles available, and each offers its own unique benefits. Take a look at each below to see which will best serve your Lawrenceville driving needs: 

• Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs): HEVs feature an internal combustion engine paired with an electric motor to help you get the most out of every gallon of gas. The electric motor is self-charging, so you’ll find that driving an HEV will be very similar to driving a conventional gas-powered vehicle. 
• Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs): PHEVs come with a larger, more powerful battery that must be charged to regain mileage. A PHEV can run solely on electric power for short distances, and the gas-powered engine will take over when the battery is depleted. You can recharge your PHEV with a home charger or at a public charging station. There are PHEV versions of the BMW 3 Series and BMW 5 Series sedans, as well as the BMW X5 SUV. BMW EVs are also able to take advantage of the Electrify America network of fast DC charging stations which are available coast to coast.
• Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs): Fully electric, with a much larger motor and battery than what’s offered in other types of electric vehicles, a BEV (or simply EV) eliminates the need for costly fuel-ups and requires less overall maintenance. You’ll also enjoy a more quiet and serene ride during your Swanee travels. All-electric models such as the BMW iX SUV and BMW i5 Sedan can deliver near instantaneous torque, so you’ll be able to get up to speed in a hurry on Duluth-area highways. 
• Hydrogen Electric Vehicles (Fuel Cell): Fuel Cell hybrid electric vehicles are much less common and are currently only available in certain locations due to limited hydrogen vehicle charging stations.

Standout Parts Found Among Types of Electric Vehicles 

The different types of electric vehicles are distinguished by their components, capabilities, and engineering. Here’s a closer look at the key components of each of the different types of electric vehicles:

Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs)

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

Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs)

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

Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs)

• ​​Electric motor
• Inverter
• Battery
• Control Module
• Drive train

Hydrogen Electric Vehicles (Fuel Cell)

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

Compare the Different Types of Electric Vehicles for Sale at BMW of Gwinnett Place

How many types of electric vehicles are there? We invite you to explore the different types of new and used electric vehicles we have for sale today at our dealership in Duluth. We’re certain that you will find the right model for you in the BMW electric lineup. Meanwhile, make sure to check out our current lease and finance offers, and feel free to contact us if you have any questions.