How does an EV work?

An electric vehicle is a type of vehicle that uses electricity as its primary source of power, rather than gasoline or diesel fuel. EVs have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their potential to reduce emissions and lower operating costs compared to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.

So, how does an EV work?

An EV is powered by an electric motor, which is in turn powered by a battery. The battery stores electricity, which is used to power the motor and turn the wheels of the vehicle. When the vehicle is in use, the battery is slowly depleted. To recharge the battery, the EV must be plugged into an electric power source, such as a wall outlet or a public charging station. There are two main types of EVs: battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). BEVs are powered exclusively by electricity, while PHEVs have both an electric motor and a gasoline engine. PHEVs can be fueled by plugging them in to charge the battery or filling the gas tank to power the gasoline engine. PHEVs can switch between the two power sources as needed, allowing them to extend their range beyond what is possible with electricity alone.

One of the main benefits of EVs is their potential to reduce emissions. Because they are powered by electricity, rather than fossil fuels, they produce no tailpipe emissions when in use. This makes them a cleaner alternative to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. In addition, EVs are typically more energy efficient than gasoline-powered vehicles, which further reduces their environmental impact.

Another advantage of EVs is their low operating costs. Because they have fewer moving parts than gasoline-powered vehicles, they may require less maintenance and consequently have longer lifespans. In addition, electricity is generally cheaper than gasoline, so operating an EV can be more cost-effective in the long run. Finally, EVs recapture and regenerate electricity when braking – putting the captured energy back into the battery. Furthermore, there are many incentives and discounts available for EV owners, including federal and state tax credits, HOV lane access and reduced tolls. These incentives further lower the cost of ownership.

Selecting an EV: a guide for commercial fleet operators

As the automotive industry undergoes a transformative shift towards sustainable practices, commercial fleet operators are increasingly exploring the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) to reduce carbon emissions and operational costs. With an impressive array of options now available in the market, choosing the right EV for your fleet can be a daunting task. This guide aims to provide insights into the types of electric vehicles, various considerations and key factors to ponder when making this important decision.

Types of electric vehicles

Commercial fleet operators must first understand the three main types of electric vehicles:

1. Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs):

These vehicles, unable to be plugged in, enhance fuel efficiency by utilizing electric motors charged during braking or sustained speed, working in tandem with a gasoline or diesel engine.

2. Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs):

Similar to HEVs, PHEVs boast electric motors and internal combustion engines. In addition to regenerative charging, PHEVs can be plugged in, allowing for short journeys on electric power alone or a hybrid mix of electric and traditional fuels.

3. Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs):

Requiring plug-in charging, BEVs are solely electric, promising optimal fuel efficiency and operational cost savings. In the realm of fleet electrification, BEVs offer an attractive option for those seeking long-term sustainability.

Expanding EV options

The EV landscape has evolved beyond traditional cars and trucks. Today, commercial fleet operators can choose from over 200 electric cars and trucks in the US, including transit buses, various truck sizes and even electric big-rig tractor trailers. The foreseeable future holds the promise of electric garbage trucks, school buses, delivery vans and postal trucks silently navigating our towns and highways.

Key considerations for fleet EV selection

1. Driving requirements and range:

Tailor your choice based on battery pack size and motor efficiency. Consider daily driving needs and environmental factors, such as temperature, which can impact operating range.

2. Features required:

Determine the desired or necessary features for your fleet, such as cargo space, equipment hauling capacity and customization options like racks and shelves.

3. Cost considerations:

While EVs generally have higher upfront costs, analyze the total cost of ownership, including purchase price, fuel versus charging expenses, maintenance and potential incentives. Government and utility incentives can significantly impact the overall cost.

By carefully weighing these factors, commercial fleet operators can confidently select the most suitable EV for their organization. Despite the initial challenges, the long-term benefits of reduced environmental impact and operational cost savings make the switch to electric vehicles an investment worth considering. Whether you are in the early stages of exploration or ready to make the transition, learn more about EVs on this page or contact us today to kickstart your journey towards a sustainable and efficient fleet.

Try using our Business EV Tool to learn more

Go to Business EV Tool

Available EV classes

As the automotive landscape undergoes a transformative shift towards electrification, it's crucial for fleet owners, public charging operators, workplace charging stakeholders and multifamily unit property owners installing electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) to understand the diverse classes of electric vehicles (EVs) available. Electric mobility extends beyond sedans and SUVs, encompassing a range of commercial vehicle classes such as pickup trucks, box trucks, cargo vans and more.

Like traditional gasoline and diesel vehicles, EVs are designed to meet the varied needs of different industries. Sedans and SUVs cater to everyday commuting and personal use, while pickup trucks and cargo vans offer versatile options for businesses. Understanding these distinctions allows stakeholders to make informed decisions when integrating EVs into their fleets or installing charging infrastructure to support EVs.

Examples of EV applications where certain classes perform exceptionally well include:

Urban delivery:

Low-speed, frequent-stop environments take advantage of regenerative braking, making EVs ideal for urban delivery services. This not only improves efficiency but also reduces wear on the braking system.

Fixed route applications:

Electric school buses are an excellent fit for fixed route applications, offering predictable and manageable charging needs while reducing emissions and operational costs for school districts.

Key differences between electric and conventional vehicles:

1. Towing torque:

Electric vehicles exhibit increased towing torque at the start, providing robust pulling power right from the get-go. This feature is particularly advantageous for commercial applications involving towing or hauling heavy loads.

2. Range considerations:

While EVs have made significant strides in range capabilities, some classes may experience decreased range compared to traditional vehicles, especially under heavy load or towing conditions. Fleet operators should consider this aspect when planning routes and scheduling charging stops.

3. Maintenance differences:

Electric vehicles generally have fewer moving parts than internal combustion engine vehicles, leading to potentially lower maintenance costs. However, servicing electric components and batteries requires specialized knowledge.

4. Charging infrastructure needs:

Commercial electric vehicles may require specific charging infrastructure tailored to their power needs. This is crucial for ensuring efficient charging and minimizing downtime for fleet operators.

In conclusion, the world of electric vehicles spans many classes and form factors, mirroring the diversity found in traditional gasoline and diesel vehicles. Fleet owners and charging infrastructure stakeholders should carefully assess their operational requirements and choose the electric vehicle classes that best align with their needs. As the industry continues to evolve, staying informed about the unique characteristics of each class empowers stakeholders to embrace the electric future while maximizing the benefits of sustainability and efficiency.