Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs)

These vehicles are fully-electric and are powered by a rechargeable battery rather than a gas engine. The battery can be charged using a standard wall outlet, or at a dedicated EV charging station.

By eliminating the gas-powered engine, BEVs do not produce tailpipe emissions and help reduce air pollution. On average, driving a BEV creates 3-times fewer carbon emissions than a gas-powered vehicle, and can be completely carbon-neutral if you get your electricity from a renewable source like solar or wind.

Popular BEV models include the Nissan Leaf and Tesla Model 3.

Plug-in Hybrids (PHEVs)

PHEVs also have an internal combustion engine that runs on gas or diesel fuel and powers up once the rechargeable battery has been depleted.

Most PHEVs can travel 20-50 miles using only their rechargeable battery, making them ideal for carbon-neutral daily commuting, or for longer trips that require the internal combustion engine.

Popular PHEV models include the Chevy Volt and Honda Clarity.

Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs)

HEVs have both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor. HEVs use a process called regenerative breaking to charge the electric battery, and then use that energy to power the electric engine.

By using the combination of internal combustion and electric power, HEVs can deliver superior fuel economy and increase the distance between fuel stops without the need to charge an electric battery.

Popular HEV models include the Toyota Prius (standard model), and the Ford Fusion Hybrid.