EV
BEVs vs PHEVs: Understanding Electric Vehicle Technology
As the automotive industry continues its rapid shift towards electrification, two key players have emerged in the zero-emission vehicle market: Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs). At WEX, we understand that navigating the world of electric vehicles can be complex – this guide will discuss BEVs vs PHEVs by breaking down their differences, helping you make an informed decision on the technology that will best suit your business’ needs.
What is a Battery Electric Vehicle?
A Battery Electric Vehicle, or BEV, is a fully electric vehicle that runs solely on electricity stored in its battery pack. BEVs produce zero tailpipe emissions and are often considered the purest form of electric vehicles. They rely entirely on their battery for power, which is recharged by plugging into an electric charging station or a home charging unit.
Key features of BEVs include:
- Zero direct emissions
- Lower running costs compared to conventional vehicles
- Simpler drivetrain with fewer moving parts, potentially leading to reduced maintenance
- Longer electric-only range compared to PHEVs
- Quieter operation due to the absence of an internal combustion engine
What is a Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle?
A Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle, or PHEV, combines both an electric motor with a battery pack and a conventional internal combustion engine. PHEVs can be plugged in to charge their batteries, allowing for a certain amount of all-electric driving range. Once the battery is depleted, the vehicle switches to hybrid mode, using both the electric motor and the petrol engine for propulsion.
Key features of PHEVs include:
- Ability to run on electricity for short trips, reducing emissions in urban areas
- Extended overall range due to the combination of electric and petrol power
- Flexibility to use either electric or petrol power, reducing range anxiety
- Potential for significant fuel savings on shorter journeys
- Lower emissions compared to conventional vehicles, especially when used primarily in electric mode
What is a Hybrid Electric Vehicle?
Aside from comparing BEVs vs PHEVs, it’s worth mentioning Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) to provide a complete picture. HEVs use both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor, but unlike PHEVs, they cannot be plugged in to charge. Instead, they recover energy through regenerative braking and by using the engine to charge the battery.
HEVs typically offer improved fuel efficiency compared to conventional vehicles but have a much more limited electric-only range compared to PHEVs and BEVs.
What is a Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle?
Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicles (MHEVs) represent another step in the electrification spectrum. These vehicles use a small electric motor to assist the internal combustion engine, primarily during acceleration and when the vehicle is coasting. MHEVs cannot run on electric power alone but offer slight improvements in fuel efficiency and reduced emissions compared to conventional vehicles.
The key difference between MHEVs and PHEVs is that mild hybrids have a much smaller battery and electric motor and cannot be plugged in to charge.
What is the difference between a BEV and PHEV?
When comparing PHEVs and BEVs, several key differences emerge:
Power Source:
Range:
Charging:
Emissions:
Complexity:
Flexibility:
BEVs
run solely on electricity
offer a longer electric-only range (often 200-300 miles or more)
rely entirely on charging for their range
produce zero direct emissions
simpler drivetrains, potentially leading to lower maintenance costs
PHEVs
combine electric and petrol power
limited electric range (usually 20-50 miles) before switching to hybrid mode
can use both charging and petrol
produce emissions when the petrol engine is in use
have more complex systems combining both electric and petrol technologies
offer the flexibility of both electric and petrol power,
Conclusion
As the electric vehicle market continues to evolve, it’s crucial to understand the differences between these technologies. According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), BEVs have seen significant growth in the UK market, accounting for one in six new cars registered in 2023. However, many of these sales were to business and fleet buyers, highlighting the importance of tax incentives in driving adoption.
When considering the total cost of ownership, the initial purchase price of BEVs remains higher. Government incentives can play a crucial role here to incentivise business to invest in BEVs. A whitepaper by Ayvens found that the overall cost of operating a BEV consistently outperforms comparable internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs). However, the average purchase price of BEVs remains higher. This is where government incentives can play a crucial role.
Looking ahead, advancements in battery technology are set to further improve the performance and appeal of both BEVs and PHEVs. For example, CATL has developed a new battery pack that could give PHEVs up to 249 miles of electric range, significantly closing the gap with BEVs in terms of electric-only driving capability.
At WEX, we’re committed to supporting our customers as they navigate the transition to electric vehicles. Our fleet management solutions are evolving to accommodate the changing needs of fleet managers. As the market continues to develop, we’ll be here to provide the tools and insights you need to make informed decisions about your vehicle fleet, whether you’re considering BEVs, PHEVs, or a mix of technologies.
As you consider the best options for your fleet, remember that a mixed fleet approach – incorporating both electric and traditional vehicles – can provide a pragmatic transition strategy. This allows businesses to gradually familiarise themselves with EV operation and management while maintaining operational reliability. WEX’s solutions can help you determine the right mix of vehicle technologies to meet your operational goals and sustainability targets.
