Welcome to EV 101
An electric vehicle stores energy in a battery and powers the wheels using one or more electric motors. There is no internal combustion engine (ICE), fuel system, or exhaust. Instead of burning gasoline, EVs convert electrical energy directly into motion. You plug them in to charge just like a laptop or phone. There is no gasoline, no tailpipe, and far fewer moving parts than a gas vehicle.
What an electric vehicle is and how it works.
What an electric vehicle is and how it works.
An electric vehicle stores energy in a battery and powers the wheels using one or more electric motors. There is no internal combustion engine (ICE), fuel system, or exhaust. Instead of burning gasoline, EVs convert electrical energy directly into motion. You plug them in to charge just like a laptop or phone. There is no gasoline, no tailpipe, and far fewer moving parts than a gas vehicle.
What makes an EV move
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You press the accelerator.
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Power from the battery is fed to an inverter.
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The inverter sends electricity to the motor.
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The motor turns the wheels with “instant torque.”
Key components
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Battery: Stores energy.
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Inverter: Converts DC power from the battery into AC power for the motors.
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Electric motor: Turns the wheels. Instant response, no gear shifting.
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Onboard charger: Converts AC power from a wall or Level 2 charger into DC power and stores it in the battery.
Why EVs feel different to drive
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Instant power when you press the accelerator.
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No gear shifting. Smooth acceleration.
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Quiet operation. No engine vibration.
Regenerative braking explained
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When you lift your foot off the accelerator, the motor becomes a generator.
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The car slows down and sends electricity back into the battery.
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This is why brake pads last much longer on EVs.
Why people switch:
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Lower fuel cost over time
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Lower maintenance due to fewer parts.
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Zero tailpipe emissions that improve local air quality and reduce greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change.
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Smooth, quiet driving with instant torque.
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Heat or cool the vehicle cabin without having to idle the engine.
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Safer designs compared to ICE vehicles.
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Home charging convenience.
Types of Electric Transportation.
Electric transportation is not limited to cars. If a vehicle is capable of movement, an electric version likely exists.
