Electric vehicle technology is constantly changing and more manufacturers are releasing different EV models. When considering an EV, you might want to ask how many miles the vehicle can drive on a full charge and what types of charging or fueling options are available. Below is some basic information describing internal combustion engine vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids, and battery electric vehicles.

Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) Vehicle

Most vehicles on the road today are still powered by an internal combustion engine fueled by gasoline or diesel. Diesel vehicles, mostly trucks, can use B20 which includes 20 percent biodiesel blended with petroleum diesel or in some cases 100 percent biodiesel.

Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV)

A hybrid electric vehicle has an internal combustion engine (ICE) and an electric motor; only one of which directly powers the vehicle at one time. The battery is recharged by the ICE and a regenerative braking system. .

Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV)

 A plug-in hybrid (also called an Extended Range Electric Vehicle or EREV) operates as an electric vehicle or as a hybrid. When operating as an electric vehicle, power comes exclusively from the battery. As the battery is depleted, the gasoline-powered ICE automatically starts. Regenerative braking still contributes to recharging the battery. 

Battery-Electric Vehicle

A battery-electric vehicle is powered entirely by electricity stored in its battery. A BEV must be plugged into an external power source to charge the battery. More info about charging a BEV can be found in our charging basics section below.