An ev vehicle uses an electric motor powered by electricity that may be stored in a battery (battery-electric vehicle, BEV), generated by a fuel cell (fuel-cell vehicle, FCV), or produced on-board from the combustion of other fossil fuels (hybrid electric vehicles, HEVs). EVs have zero tailpipe emissions and use less energy over their entire lifetime than comparable internal combustion engine cars, making them a viable option to reduce pollution, global warming, and depletion of nonrenewable resources.

EVs are available in a wide range of sizes and styles, including sedans, crossover SUVs, hatchbacks, and pickup trucks. Some are all-new models, such as the Kia Niro EV and Tesla Model 3. Others are electric versions of familiar car brands and models.

EV Vehicle: Embracing the Benefits of Electric Mobility

Many EVs are equipped with regenerative brakes that convert some of the car’s kinetic energy into electricity to recharge the batteries and decrease the amount of braking required, which helps to prolong brake life. Some have a fast-charging port that allows for an up to 50 mile charge in about 30 minutes.

More than a third of Americans say they would “definitely” or “seriously consider” buying an all-electric vehicle if they were in the market for a new car, according to a Consumer Reports national survey conducted in fall 2022. They cite lower energy costs and savings on maintenance, and lower emissions and convenience of home charging as primary reasons. Many EVs are also designed with efficiency-improving technologies such as a start-stop system that shuts off the engine during stops to reduce idle emissions and fuel consumption.