What is an electric car?

The term "electric car" normally refers to battery electric vehicle (BEV), but broadly may also include plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), range-extended electric vehicle (REEV) and fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV).

Which companies are launching electric cars?

General Motors, Ford, Jaguar Land Rover and the Volkswagen Group are all poised to launch electric vehicles of their own, and they will do so with a century of experience behind them. This gives us the perfect opportunity to take stock and evaluate the current situation with electric cars. How do EVs work?

Who made electric cars in the 20th century?

During the 20th century, the main manufacturers of electric vehicles in the United States included Anthony Electric, Baker, Columbia, Anderson, Edison, Riker, Milburn, Bailey Electric, and Detroit Electric. Their electric vehicles were quieter than gasoline-powered ones, and did not require gear changes.

What are the different types of electric vehicles?

There are several types of EVs, all powered a little differently: Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) are powered by rechargeable electric batteries. BEVs produce no tailpipe emissions and have no combustion engine. Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) are powered by an electric motor as well as a small combustion engine.