ELECTRIC VEHICLES

EVs use a battery to store the electrical energy that powers the motor. EV batteries are charged by plugging the vehicle into an electric power source. Although electricity production may contribute to air pollution, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) considers EVs to be zero-­emission vehicles because their motors produce no exhaust or emissions. Since EVs use no other fuel, they help reduce petroleum consumption.

Currently available EVs have a shorter range per charge than most conventional vehicles have per tank of gas. EV manufacturers typically target a minimum range of 100 miles. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration, 100 miles is sufficient for more than 90% of all house-­ hold vehicle trips in the United States.

Light-­duty HEV, PHEV, and EV models are currently available from many auto manufacturers, with new models continuously being released as EVs adoption increases. There are also a variety of medium and heavy-­duty options available. For up-­to-­date information on available vehicle models, refer to the Alternative Fuels and Advanced Vehicles Data Center’s (AFDC) Electric Vehicle Availability page:
www.afdc.energy.gov/afdc/vehicles/electric_availability.html and www.FuelEconomy.gov.