PHEV vs. BEV: What is the Difference?

It’s becoming easier and more common for Bellaire and Manistee drivers to upgrade their vehicles to an electric or hybrid model. Whether you are making a transition or ready to dive in completely, there are a few types of electric vehicles to consider. So, what is a BEV? What is a PHEV? What about PHEV vs. BEV models?

Serra Nissan of Traverse City covers the difference between hybrid electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, battery-powered electric vehicles, and fuel-cell electric models, so you get an idea of the variety that’s available to you. Learn more about each EV, then dive into our Serra Nissan of Traverse City inventory!

Explore Electric Vehicles: BEV vs. PHEV vs. Hybrid vs. EV

The automotive market, while not predominantly electric, is making a large change in that direction. Manufacturers are making a fuel-efficient shift, and that means that there is a growing variety to choose from, including the four different types of electric vehicles we’ll discuss below. Each of the four distinct EV types has its own benefits that it can offer drivers in the Manistee drivers. So, what is a BEV? What is a PHEV? What’s the difference between BEV vs. PHEV? Compare PHEV vs. BEV and much more with Serra Nissan of Traverse City below.

• HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle): A hybrid electric vehicle includes a self-charging electric motor that works in tandem with your engine on Bellaire roads to provide improved gas mileage. This type of electric model requires gas in the tank, but oftentimes these types of hybrids offer regenerative braking to recharge the battery.
• PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle):Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles have a larger battery than an HEV, and the motor must be charged in order to regain mileage, but it’s a great option for those looking to try out more fuel-efficient models. It’s also effective for those who want to spend time utilizing only electric energy, but still have gas as a backup. You can even take advantage of accessible charging stations around Cadillac.
• BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle): A battery electric vehicle is a completely electric model with a larger motor and battery than what you’ll find in the previously mentioned models. It also requires overall less maintenance than a traditional vehicle or hybrid model. In this case, you’ll also want to invest in a home charger so you will be able to charge up as often as you need.
• FCEV (Hydrogen Fuel Cell): Fuel cell hybrid electric vehicles aren’t very common due to the expense, and the limited availability of charging stations.

BEV vs. PHEV vs. Hybrid vs. EV: Significant Parts

Each of these models has a different set of parts that play more or less significant roles in the architecture of each vehicle. This also means the capacity of each model varies as well.

Battery Electric Vehicles

BEV models are completely electric and because of this they have the largest set of batteries, ranging from 40 kWh to 80 kWh, and the latest models even reach all the way up to 200 kWh.

• ​​Electric motor
• Inverter
• Battery
• Control Module
• Drive train

Hydrogen Electric Vehicles (Fuel Cell)

• Electric motor
• Fuel-cell stack
• Hydrogen storage tank
• Battery with converter and controller

Hybrid Electric Vehicles:

In these models, the battery is an assistant to the engine, and in this case, the battery will play a smaller role in the overall performance of the vehicle.

• Engine
• Electric motor
• Battery pack with controller & inverter
• Fuel tank
• Control module

Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles:

Relative to an HEV, the PHEV has a larger battery due to the time periods where it operates solely on the battery and electric motor. This remains smaller than that of a BEV, as it will have a battery of roughly around 15 kWh.

• Electric motor
• Engine
• Inverter
• Battery
• Fuel tank
• Control module
• Battery Charger

Get Your Electric Vehicle in Manistee Today with Serra Nissan of Traverse City!

Now that you can differentiate the different types of electric vehicles, our team at Serra Nissan of Traverse City can help you narrow down the options that are most effective for your daily life near Bellaire. Take the time to explore our new vehicle specials or national offers and incentives and see how you can save on a Nissan hybrid or electric car. If you have any questions about how to upgrade your Manistee ride, visit us in Traverse City or contact us today!