Whether you’re considering purchasing an electric vehicle or already own one, our guide will help.
The different types of electric cars
So let me tell you about electric cars and what they mean when we say a car is “electric.” That means it only uses electricity to run, like when you charge your phone or tablet. On the other hand, when we say a car is “electrified,” that means it uses both electricity and petrol or diesel to run.
Now, there are three types of electrified cars. The first is called a “pure electric car,” which is sometimes called an “EV” or a “battery electric car.” These cars have big batteries and one, two, or four electric motors. They only run on electricity, so you need to charge them up before you can get anywhere.
Electric cars
Charging an electric car is an important aspect of ownership, and there are various options to consider. Understanding the types of electric car charging stations is crucial, as they vary in terms of charging speed, power output, and connector types.
Home charging and public charging are the two main options available to electric car owners, each with its advantages and disadvantages. While home charging is convenient and cost-effective, public charging provides flexibility for longer trips.
When it comes to charging speed and range considerations, it’s essential to understand the impact of different charging levels and how they affect the vehicle’s driving range.
There are several tips for efficient charging, such as charging during off-peak hours, avoiding frequent fast charging, and maintaining optimal battery health. By understanding these factors, electric car owners can ensure a hassle-free charging experience.
Plug-in Hybrids
A “plug-in hybrid,” which is sometimes called a “PHEV” have a petrol or diesel engine, a medium-sized battery, and a small electric motor. The electric motor can help the traditional engine, or it can power the car for a limited time by itself. These cars work best for longer trips and help to smooth the transition to electric cars.
They are generally fuel efficient and are best used for a mix of short commutes which might only use electric power and also medium to long-range journeys where the range of a pure electric vehicle might be lacking.
Self Charging Hybrids
The third type is called a “traditional hybrid,” which is sometimes called a “self-charging hybrid” or a “full hybrid.” These cars have a petrol or diesel engine, a small battery and an electric motor. The electric motor helps the traditional engine, but it doesn’t work by itself for very long. These cars can’t be plugged in at all.
Traditional hybrids have an electric motor and small battery that is mostly used as a boost to the petrol or diesel engine. They are best used for regular long-distance trips or homes where charging is impossible. Electric cars are quiet, smooth, spacious and easy to drive, plus they are cost-effective to run.
The benefits of electric
Now, the good thing about electric cars is that they’re usually really quiet, smooth, and easy to drive. They don’t have gears like regular cars, so you don’t have to worry about shifting.
They’re also cheaper to run than gas cars because electricity costs less than petrol or diesel, and they generally don’t need as much maintenance. Plus, because the battery is usually hidden away underneath the body, there’s more room inside for you and your family!
Electric cars can be a bit more expensive to buy than regular petrol or diesel cars. There used to be a government grant to help with the cost, but that ended in June 2022. However, prices are coming down as technology gets better, so electric cars might soon cost the same or less than regular cars.
But don’t worry, because you might actually save money in the long run by driving an electric car, especially if you can home charge and even use free energy from solar panels.
Warranties
Extended warranties are available for electric cars, which can offer additional protection and peace of mind. Battery life is a major consideration for electric car owners, as batteries can degrade over time and will eventually need to be replaced. However, proper maintenance and charging practices can help prolong battery life and delay the need for replacement.
Downsides
However, there are some downsides to electric cars. Most don’t go as far on one charge as regular cars can go on a full tank of fuel. Also, charging an electric car takes longer than filling up a petrol or diesel car, and there aren’t as many places to charge them yet. This can make some people worried about running out of power, which is called “range anxiety.”
Another thing to think about is efficiency. Some electric cars have a bigger battery so they can go further, but that can make them less efficient and more expensive to run. To figure out how efficient an electric car is, you can look at the manufacturer’s brochure or ask the dealer. You can also divide the distance you want to travel by the efficiency figure to figure out how much it will cost you in electricity.
A kilowatt-hour (kWh) is a unit of energy that electric cars use. It’s like a litre of fuel for regular cars. If your car has a bigger battery or is more efficient, it will cost you less to travel the same distance. So, there you have it, electric cars are pretty awesome.
Awesome electric models
Citroën e-C4
The Citroën e-C4 is great for families like yours who need to drive around town to school, the supermarket and on those errands and kid’s taxi runs with ease as it can go up to 217 miles on one charge.
The Citroën e-C4 might not look as cool as some other cars, but it’s a great car for families. It has plenty of room in the back for your dog and your growing kids and it’s very safe.
The Renault Zoe
The Renault Zoe is a reliable and affordable option with a range of 130-245 miles, although you should be careful of battery-leased examples which come with a monthly fee.
BMW i3
The BMW i3 is a unique and fun-to-drive option with a range of 176-191 miles, but its lack of a fifth seat and small boot may limit its practicality.
Hyundai Ioniq Electric
The Hyundai Ioniq Electric is a value-for-money option with a range of 194 miles and high equipment levels. The interior of the Hyundai is practical and roomy, making it the ideal choice for a family of four. Its interior design is not radical, typical of a Hyundai.
The build quality is generally good, and the car is robust and reliable. The seating is comfortable and supportive, with plenty of legroom and headroom for all passengers. The boot space is generous, easily accommodating a family’s luggage. There is also a handy storage area in the centre console, ideal for stowing away important items.
The Hyundai Ioniq is a great family car, offering practicality, comfort and reliability. Its traditional design will appeal to those seeking a no-nonsense, dependable car.
Tesla Model S
The Tesla Model S is known for its incredible technology, huge range (248-405 miles), and fabled performance. The Tesla Model S is an incredible vehicle that stands out from the crowd.
With its advanced technology, huge range and remarkable performance, it is no wonder why the Tesla Model S is one of the most sought-after electric cars on the market.
Its impressive performance is highlighted by its 0-60 MPH acceleration time making it one of the fastest cars in its class. Additionally, the Model S’s advanced technology includes Autopilot, a semi-autonomous driving system, and an impressive 17” touchscreen display that serves as the main infotainment system.
All these features make the Tesla Model S the perfect car for those who want to travel in style and luxury. With its vast range and amazing performance, the Tesla Model S is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable, eco-friendly electric car.
MG ZS EV
Finally, the MG ZS EV is a budget-friendly option with a range of 163 miles that’s comfortable and decent to drive, but it can’t match the range of some of the other options.
Ultimately, the best electric car for you will depend on your budget, driving needs, and personal preferences. It’s a good idea to test-drive a few different models to see which one feels right for you and your family.
