BEV vs. PHEV

There are a lot of electric vehicles coming out from various automakers, and manufacturers continue to push forward with an electrified future. As such, there are plenty of terms you’ll hear thrown around when looking to buy an electric vehicle. You’ll need to know the differences between BEV and PHEV as you conduct your search for a new vehicle.

Take a look at the BEV vs. PHEV debate. Either kind of vehicle can help you save on fuel costs, giving you a lower overall cost of ownership as you drive around Bellaire or Kalkaska. To find out more, compare PHEV vs. BEV in our handy guide from Serra Volkswagen of Traverse City below!

What Is a BEV?

What is a BEV? BEV stands for “battery electric vehicle,” and this type of vehicle runs entirely on electricity. You’ll often hear the term EV used interchangeably with BEV. A BEV uses several linked lithium-ion batteries as a power source to turn a motor. Some BEVs have one, two, or three motors. A BEV with one motor typically turns one axle, either the front or back one. With two motors, you’ll get a BEV that has power to all four wheels.

What Is a PHEV?

What is a PHEV? PHEV stands for “plug-in hybrid electric vehicle.” This type of vehicle runs on both electricity and gasoline. You can run the vehicle on battery power for a time, typically anywhere from 25 to 50 miles, before the gasoline engine kicks in. PHEV powertrains work well for people in the city who want to save money on gasoline. For example, if you live within 10 miles of your daily commute in Lake City, you can use all-electric power to get to and from work. When driving along the highway on longer trips, the gasoline engine kicks in after the battery empties itself of power.

You can recharge the batteries on both a BEV and PHEV. Although the BEV uses a lot more power, the batteries are bigger and it takes longer to recharge fully. A PHEV has a much smaller battery and takes less time to recharge.

Which Do You Prefer in the PHEV vs. BEV Debate?

Ready to determine which is a better fit for you in the BEV vs. PHEV debate? Contact us or call 231-486-0890 to schedule a test drive with us at Serra Volkswagen of Traverse City. If you’re ready to move forward with a purchase, apply for financing to jumpstart the car-buying process. We have several EVs in stock, from the new Volkswagen ID.4 SUV to the e-Golf compact car. Be sure to get in touch if you have any lingering questions in the PHEV vs. BEV debate!