How Do Electric Cars Work? Your Macklin Motors Guide
New to the world of electric vehicles (EVs)? Learn all about how electric cars work in our handy guide.
Electric cars don’t seem like such a new phenomenon anymore, what with their rapid expansion in the UK. But that doesn’t mean they still aren’t somewhat of an intrigue to some.
Whether you’re new to electric cars or are looking for a helpful reminder of the basics. In this article, we’ll share all you need to know about how EVs work.
How do EVs work?
If you’re pressed for time, here’s the short answer.
Electric cars contain an electric battery and an electric motor. Power is generated by the battery and sent to the electric motor to help turn the wheels – all without the presence of an engine or gearbox.
As the car moves, the battery power will of course deplete. This means that once the level becomes low, EVs will need to be plugged into a power source to recharge. More on this later.
There are different types of electrified vehicles, and these will each work slightly differently.
What are the different types of electric vehicles?
Electric vehicles (EVs) generally refer to any vehicle that is powered by some form of electricity. The main types of EVs are:
Battery electric vehicles (BEVs)
Also known as ‘fully electric vehicles’, these EVs rely solely on a battery and an electric motor to generate power.
Range-extended electric vehicles (REVs)
REVs are less common to find, though they use a petrol engine as a generator to power a battery pack and electric motor. This makes them similar to hybrids, though the engine never directly drives the wheels.
Hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs)
Full hybrid vehicles use a petrol or diesel engine alongside an electric motor and a small battery. They are self-charging meaning there’s no need to plug in, harvesting energy from braking to help charge the battery on the go. Electric power is used mainly when driving around at lower speeds, while the engine kicks in for longer journeys.
Plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs)
Similar to hybrids, PHEVs are built with a combustion engine (petrol or diesel), and an electric motor connected to a battery pack. PHEVs use a combination of traditional and electric power, allowing them to drive in both normal and electric modes. Like BEVs, PHEVs will need plugging in to recharge.
Mild hybrid vehicles (MHEVs)
In true hybrid fashion, MHEVs also contain a petrol or diesel engine and an electrical system. The key difference is that the car can’t be driven by electric power alone. Instead, the motor comes in handy during acceleration or when lifting off the throttle to help maximise fuel efficiency.
How are EVs charged?
Electric car batteries work much like those in a smartphone – with cells packed closely together in a rectangle shape.
They are normally located between the front and rear axles of the vehicle and are made using lithium-ion. To recharge the battery, it will need to be plugged into a power source. This could be using a:
- Three-pin domestic charging socket
- A 7.4-22kW wallbox
- A rapid DC public charging station
Many EVs house the charging unit behind the petrol cap where you would normally fuel up. While others place the charging port at either the front or rear depending on the make.
Some vehicles will come with a tethered charger, with a fixed cable attached to plug it in. While others will be untethered, with a detachable cable.
If using a public charging station, make sure to bring the correct cable in case it is not compatible as is. A universal Type 2 connector is your best bet here, meaning you can plug in and go wherever you’re charging.
Depending on the type of charger and the speed at which it charges, the time it takes to charge EVs varies.
For instance, standard wall boxes are great for charging at home, though they are often slower and can take anywhere from 7 – 11 hours to charge. Find a rapid DC charger on the road however, and you could charge up to 80% in around 30 minutes.
What are electric vehicles like to drive?
Working differently from petrol or diesel cars, electric cars are very different to drive.
Typical characteristics of EVs include:
- Reduced road noise – without a noisy engine churning away under the hood.
- Smoother acceleration – thanks to instant torque from the electric motor.
- Automatic transmission – meaning no fussing about with gear changes.
- Increased sustainability – EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions since they don’t burn any fuel.
If you like automatic cars, fully electric vehicles will offer a similar feel yet a more refined drive. Similarly, if you prefer traditional manual driving, a hybrid car will be more suited to you. The best way to find out is by booking a test drive.
Browse new electric cars for sale at Macklin Motors
Ready to join the EV club? At Macklin Motors, we stock a wide range of new electric cars for sale. Discover the latest models from top brands such as Ford, Hyundai, Mazda, MG, Nissan, and more.
We also offer new hybrid cars for sale if you want to explore the best of both worlds. Want to know more about electric and hybrid cars? Visit our Electric Vehicle Hub.
Whichever you choose, benefit from our budget-friendly finance options to help spread the costs.
Browse our latest deals below, or get in touch with our friendly team if you have any questions.