Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV)
A battery electric vehicle uses batteries to power an electric motor to propel the vehicle. BEVs produce no tailpipe emissions. The batteries are recharged from the grid and from regenerative braking. Types of battery electric vehicles in widespread use today include low-speed, neighborhood electric vehicles (NEV), airport ground support equipment, and off-road industrial equipment such as fork lifts. Since 1996, there have been about 5500 highway capable electric vehicles on the road in California. General Motors EV1, Toyota RAV4 EV, and Ford Ranger EV are just a few examples.
Advantages of battery electric vehicles (BEVs):
- Zero tailpipe emissions (no CO2 or other pollutants) when driving
- Powered by electric energy, resulting in significantly lower total GHG emissions and other pollutants for "well-to-wheels" driving
- Allows for use of 100% renewable energy from Solar, Wind, or other renewables
- Overnight battery recharging (electric vehicles are recharged by plugging into a standard 110/220-volt household outlet.)
- Recaptured energy from regenerative braking
- Lower fuel and operational costs
- Possible use in secondary markets for used batteries and reduced waste
Challenges:
- Improving battery technology: lower costs, increased energy density, extended durability
- Possible need for public recharging infrastructure
- Extending mileage range
Some contents courtesy of Electric Drive Transportation Association (EDTA)