What types of electric vehicles are there?

Electric Vehicle (EV): We’ll start with an easy one. EV stands for electric vehicle, obviously. But this is a broad term that covers any on-road or off-road vehicle that’s powered by electricity.

Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV): Since the term EV isn’t always precise enough, you can be more specific and talk about BEVs or Battery Electric vehicles. These run purely on electricity derived from battery sources.

Hybrid Battery Electric Vehicle (Hybrid BEV): Electric vehicles which combine both an internal combustion engine and a small electric motor. For example, a diesel-electric hybrid will have a diesel engine that charges the batteries, which in turn powers the machine. They offer some of the benefits of BEVs, such as the ability to run on zero-emissions for a limited period, but they still retain an internal combustion engine.

Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV): A type of electric vehicle which is powered by hydrogen. Energy is stored as hydrogen and converted to electricity by the fuel cell. The only emissions from FCEVs are warm air and water.

Grid-connected electric vehicle: A type of electric vehicle that maintains a continuous cable connection to the grid allowing it to work around the clock without having to stop for recharging or refuelling. Machines like this are suitable for static applications on permanent sites like waste handling and recycling, or indoors to carry out repetitive tasks.

Volvo Construction Equipment’s grid-connected EW240 Electric Material Handler

Autonomous electric vehicle: A vehicle that is capable of operating with reduced or no human input and is powered by electricity. Machines like this are being trialled in controlled and confined areas, like quarrying and mining, to carry out repetitive workflows.

Net zero carbon exhaust emissions: When we talk about a vehicle having net zero carbon exhaust emissions, it means they are free from carbon - so no CO₂ is released into the atmosphere.

Low Emission Zone (LEZ): A defined area where access for polluting vehicles is restricted or deterred with the aim of improving air quality.

Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ): A zone with lower emission requirements than LEZ. In many cases, vehicles that do not meet the emission standards for LEZ or ULEZ are not barred from entry but are required to pay a fine for entering the zone.

To get more insight into zero emission construction check out the quick links below.