Fully electric vehicles are a great option for some people, whereas hybrid vehicles may suit the wants and needs of others better.

Before purchasing your electric vehicle, take a look at what’s available to you and how they work.

Whether you’re looking for a family car, nippy hatchback, business saloon or any of these in the form of a Motability vehicle, read on to learn about the different types of EVs available from Arbury.

Battery electric vehicles (BEVs)

Often referred to as electric vehicles or pure-electric vehicles, battery electric vehicles – all meaning the same type of vehicle – are totally powered by one electric battery.

The battery can be topped up using a charger in the public charging network, a dedicated one at the office, or from your mains at home.

BEVs are zero-emission vehicles, offering the lowest running costs and greatest environmental benefits.

Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs)

PHEVS combine a conventional combustion engine with an electric motor. They provide a good alternative to BEVs for people who aren’t looking to make the switch to fully electric immediately.

The electric motor of a plug-in hybrid vehicle is charged in the same way as pure-electric vehicles (by plugging into the mains), and the combustion engine requires a petrol or diesel fill-up as normal.

Typically, the electric battery range is around 20-30 miles – perfect for shorter journeys. On longer journeys, the diesel or petrol engine will be used once the electric power is depleted – a nice added safety net.

PHEV emissions are lower than that of a petrol or diesel car, and many are also eligible for the government plug-in vehicle grant.

Hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs)

Hybrid electric vehicles work similarly to PHEVs, but are self-charging. This means they can’t be plugged into the mains to charge.

These cars will likely only be around until 2030, due to the increasing technological capabilities of plug-in and pure-electric vehicles.

The batteries in HEVs are generally quite small, so they only offer a few miles in pure-electric mode before the combustion engine takes over.

Mild hybrid electric vehicles (MHEVs)

MHEVs are similar to hybrids in that they both have two power sources. However, in mild hybrids, the small electric motor is there to support the power coming from the petrol or diesel engine.

This allows a mild hybrid to perform more economically but it can’t power the car alone – therefore they’re not zero-emission vehicles.

At Arbury, we have a knowledgeable team comprised of helpful sales staff and fully trained technicians, who can offer a comprehensive guide to purchasing and maintaining an electric vehicle.

If you’d like to learn more, get in touch with your local Arbury dealership and speak to a member of the team. If you’re a member of the Motability Scheme, speak to your Arbury Motability specialist to find out more about the electric cars available to lease on the Scheme.

Alternatively, browse our new car stock online to find your new electric vehicle today.