In this instalment of the AutoTrader glossary of automotive terms, we look at terms associated with electric vehicles (EVs)!
Related: Are Electric Car Batteries Dangerous?
A
AC Charging: Refers to charging an electric vehicle using an alternating current (AC) power source.
B
Battery: An energy storage device that powers an electric vehicle.
Battery Management System (BMS): A system that monitors and manages the battery's state of charge, temperature, and other factors.
Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV): A vehicle that runs entirely on electricity, with no combustion engine.
Bi-directional Charging: Refers to the ability of an electric vehicle to send power back to the grid, allowing it to function as a mobile energy storage device.
Braking Regeneration: A system that recovers energy during braking and uses it to recharge the battery.
C
Charge Port: The point on an electric vehicle where the charging cable is plugged in.
Charging Cable: The cable used to connect the electric vehicle to a charging station.
Charging Station: A device used to charge an electric vehicle, typically located in public places or private homes.
D
DC Fast Charging: Refers to charging an electric vehicle using a direct current (DC) power source, allowing for faster charging times.
Destination Charging: Refers to charging an electric vehicle at a destination such as a hotel, restaurant, or shopping center.
Direct Drive: Refers to an electric motor that is connected directly to the wheels, without the need for a transmission.
Drivetrain: The system that transmits power from the electric motor to the wheels of an electric vehicle.
E
Electric Motor: The device that powers an electric vehicle, converting electrical energy into mechanical energy to turn the wheels.
Electric Vehicle (EV): A vehicle that runs on electricity, either partially or entirely, with no combustion engine.
Energy Density: Refers to the amount of energy that can be stored in a battery per unit of volume or weight.
Energy Efficiency: Refers to the amount of energy that is converted into motion by an electric vehicle, compared to the amount of energy consumed.
Energy Management System (EMS): A system that optimises the use of energy in an electric vehicle, maximising range and efficiency.
F
Fast Charging: Refers to charging an electric vehicle in a relatively short amount of time, typically less than an hour.
Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV): A vehicle that runs on hydrogen fuel cells, converting hydrogen into electricity to power the electric motor.
H
High Voltage: Refers to the high voltage used in an electric vehicle's electrical system, typically around 400 volts.
Home Charging: Refers to charging an electric vehicle at home, using a charging station installed in a garage or driveway.
Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV): A vehicle that combines a combustion engine with an electric motor, allowing for improved fuel economy.
I
Induction Charging: A wireless charging method that uses magnetic fields to transfer energy to the electric vehicle.
K
Kilowatt Hour (kWh): A unit of energy used to measure the capacity of a battery or the amount of energy consumed during charging.L
Level 1 Charging: Refers to charging an electric vehicle using a standard 120-volt power outlet, typically taking several hours.
Level 2 Charging: Refers to charging an electric vehicle using a 240-volt power source, typically taking a few hours.
Lithium-Ion Battery: The most common type of battery used in electric vehicles, known for its high energy density and long lifespan.
Low Voltage: Refers to the low voltage used in an electric vehicle's electrical system, typically around 12 volts.
M
Maximum Charge Rate: The maximum rate at which an electric vehicle can be charged at a given powerpoint.
