An electric vehicle, abbreviated as EV, is an advanced vehicle form that works on an electric motor and uses electricity to operate. EV came to existence back in mid 19th century, when the world moved toward easier and more convenient ways of driving vehicles. With the increase in interest and demand for EVs, governments of several countries also provided incentives to adapt this vehicle mode.
Are you an EV owner? Or are you interested in buying one? This article is for you! It includes every detail, from the types of EVs to different smart EV charging levels. Let’s dive into the world of EVs!
Main Types of Electric Vehicles (EVs)
Implementing modern technology, EVs come in four different types. Let’s get to know about the details!
Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs)
Battery Electric Vehicle is also named All-Electric Vehicle. This EV type is powered entirely by an electric battery rather than gasoline. Its major components include; an electric motor, battery, control module, inverter, and drive train.
EV charging level 2 charges BEVs faster and is usually preferred by BEV owners. As the motor operates with DC, the supplied AC is first converted into DC to be used. Several examples of BEVs include; Tesla Model 3, TOYOTA Rav4, Tesla X, etc. BEVs save your money as they require little maintenance; there is no need for fuel change.
Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs)
This EV type is also named Series hybrid. It is because it uses an internal combustion engine (ICE) and a motor. Its components include; an electric motor, engine, inverter, battery, fuel tank, battery charger, and control module.
It can operate in two modes: All-electric mode and Hybrid mode. While operating alone on electricity, this vehicle can travel more than 70 miles. Leading examples include; Porsche Cayenne S E – a hybrid, BMW 330e, BMW i8, etc. Once the PHEV’s battery is emptied, the ICE takes control; operating the EV as a conventional, non-plug-in hybrid.
Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs)
HEVs are also named parallel hybrid or standard hybrid. To drive the wheels, electric motors work together with the gasoline engine. Its components include; an engine, electric motor, controller and inverter packed with the battery, fuel tank, and control module.
It has batteries to run the motor and a fuel tank to run the engine. Its batteries can only be charged internally by ICE. Major examples include; Honda Civic Hybrid, Toyota Prius Hybrid, etc. HEVs are distinguished from the other EV types as its battery cannot be recharged by external sources.
Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV)
FCEV is also named; Fuel Cell Vehicles (FCV) and Zero Emission Vehicle. Its components include; an electric motor, Hydrogen storage tank, fuel-cell stack, battery with controller and inverter.
Electricity needed to run the vehicle is supplied by Fuel Cell technology. Examples include; Toyota Mirai, Hyundai Tucson FCEV, Honda Clarity Fuel Cell, etc. FCEVs are different from plug-in cars as they generate the required electricity on their own.
Different Levels of Electric Vehicle Charging
If you are an EV owner, you must know that the basic thing your EV demands from you is its proper charging! There do exist different EV charging levels to charge up your EV. If you are wondering, which EV charging level is suitable for your vehicle? You must know that it entirely depends on your vehicle type. Let’s have a look at them.
• Level 1 – Trickle Charging
This basic EV charging level charges your EV from the common 120-Volt household outlet. Plug your EV charging cable in your household socket to start charging. Some people find it sufficient because they usually travel within 4 to 5 miles per hour. However, if you have to travel far on a daily basis, you cannot opt for this level.
The domestic socket delivers only 2.3 kW and is the slowest way to charge your vehicle. This charging level works best for PHEVs as this vehicle type uses small batteries.
• Level 2 – AC Charging
It is the most commonly used EV charging level. Charging with a 200-Volt supply, you can achieve the range of 12 to 60 miles per hour. It refers to charging your vehicle from an EV charging station. EV charging stations can be installed in homes, workplaces, or commercial places like; shopping malls, railway stations, etc.
This charging level is cheaper and charges EV 5 to 15 times faster than charging level 1. Most BEV users find this charging level suitable for their daily charging needs.
• Level 3 – DC Charging
It is the fastest charging level and is commonly named: DC fast charging or Supercharging. It uses Direct Current (DC) for EV charging, while the two levels detailed above use Alternating Current (AC). DC charging stations use a much higher voltage, 800 Volts, so level 3 charging stations cannot be installed in homes.
Level 3 charging stations completely charge your EV within 15 to 20 minutes. It is mainly because it converts DC into AC in the charging station. However, installing this 3rd level charging station is much more expensive!
Where to Get the EVSE From?
EVSE refers to Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment, and it is a piece of equipment used to transfer electricity from the power source to the EV. It includes chargers, charging cords, stands (either domestic or commercial), vehicle connectors, attachment plugs, and the list continues.
There are several EV manufacturers around the globe, but if you are looking for the best one, it’s HENGYI! It is a well-known EV charger manufacturer company with over 12 years of experience. They have warehouses in countries like Europe and North America. HENGYI is the power behind the first-ever China-made EV charger for the European and American markets.
Final Thoughts
Charging your Electric Vehicle (EV) is the same as fueling your regular gasoline vehicle. You can opt for any charging levels detailed above to charge your EV depending on your EV type and requirements.
Don’t forget to visit HENGYI if you are looking for high-quality EV charging accessories, especially EV chargers!
Post time: Aug-30-2022