What is a Battery Electric Vehicle?
Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV) are vehicles that are powered using battery power alone, and come with no internal combustion engine. Otherwise known as all-electric, or simply electric cars, they are the most efficient cars currently available.
Similar to plug-in hybrid vehicles, BEVs need to be plugged-in to recharge their batteries. With no internal combustion engine to fall back on when energy is depleted, BEVs are always in all-electric mode. However, they can travel considerably further than any other electrified vehicle thanks to a larger battery, allowing you to complete your daily duties with no range anxiety.
How does a Battery Electric Vehicle work?
Instead of an internal combustion engine that you would find in other vehicles, all-electric cars are powered using an electric motor that works in tandem with the car's large battery.
In simple terms, the battery is used to store energy during recharging. This energy is then used to drive the electric motor, and in turn, drive the wheels. Generally, the larger the battery, the further the car can travel.
All electric vehicles utilise a single-speed transmission which works in a similar manner to an automatic gearbox, meaning they offer a straightforward driving experience.
Thanks to intelligent regenerative braking systems, BEVs are able to harvest energy that is usually lost during braking, to recharge its battery. However, most of the energy will come from plugging the vehicle in to a power source at home or at a public charging station.
Benefits of buying an electric car
Cutting-Edge Technology
As competition hots up, innovation is rife within the plug-in hybrid segment, meaning you will enjoy the latest technology.
Low Running Costs
The cost of charging compared to refuelling is considerably less expensive, and you will also benefit from free road tax.
Zero Emissions
Electric cars are better for the environment and emit no tailpipe emissions, meaning you will not be charged to enter ULEZ zones.
Performance
Thanks to instantaneous torque, electric cars offer a unique and exciting driving experience.
Need more advice?
If you are interested in an all-electric car but would like further guidance, we have written a range of articles to assist.
View Hybrid and Electric Guides
Popular Electric Cars
There are a plethora of superb electric cars to choose from, but some of the most popular include:
Explore Our Collection
Frequently Asked Questions
Charging times can vary depending on the size of the battery and the speed of the charging point.
Slow charges can take up to 12 hours, while ultra-rapid charges can see your vehicle gain 200 miles in as little as 30 minutes.
When an electric car runs out of charge, the result will be the same as when petrol or diesel vehicles run out of fuel. Completely depleting the charge can damage the battery and electric components, so make sure to utilise your vehicle's range monitor and plan charging points into your journeys.
Range anxiety is where the driver fears the vehicle's range will not be sufficient to arrive at their destination. Nowadays, the majority of electric cars offer impressive all-electric ranges that negate the effects of range anxiety greatly.
The UK Government has imposed a ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles from the year 2030. However, it will still be legal to drive non-electric vehicles on the road after this date.
Electric cars offer a unique driving experience thanks to impressive performance levels and instantaneous torque. If you are interested in test-driving an electric car, please contact your nearest Stratstone retailer.
Yes, there are Government grants available for electric cars, but how much you are entitled to may differ from vehicle to vehicle. The latest information can be found on the Government website.
Manufacturers offer an 8-year or 100,000-mile battery warranty, highlighting their confidence in battery life and covering you from unforeseen battery issues for that period.
Plenty of premium electric cars offer ranges that exceed 300 miles, such as the BMW iX and i4, but there are a variety that can achieve 400 miles too, such as the EQE and EQS by Mercedes-EQ.
Yes, electric cars are available as company cars and offer reduced costs thanks to a lower benefit-in-kind (BIK).
Yes, many manufacturers offer electric cars as part of the Motability scheme. The latest offers can be found within our Motability section.
