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What Type of EV is the Right Fit for You?

There are three types of Electric Vehicles (EVs): Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), which run only on electricity; Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs), which can run on both electricity and gasoline; and Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs), which do not plug into the grid, but have small batteries that charge while driving, improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions impact. Learn more about each type of EV by expanding each selection below.

Battery-electric (BEVs) cars run only on electricity, no gasoline. The battery is charged with electricity that runs the electric motors and produces zero tailpipe emissions. Learn more about charging a BEV.

BEVs are fuel efficient, with newer models having enough range to run for multiple days without recharging. They can be charged at home or on the go, usually at a much lower cost compared to a gasoline car. Ontario's electricity system has a low GHG emission profile, meaning driving an EV here has a light environmental footprint. Explore the charger map to find public charging stations along your regular routes.
Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) can operate on their electric battery, and are supplemented with a gasoline engine when more range or power is required. PHEVs are emissions-free only when running on electricity. They typically have smaller batteries and less electric range than BEVs, because the gasoline engine can provide power when the battery is drained. 

PHEVs are preferred by drivers who can benefit from operating on electricity for most of their short commute travels but want additional range from the gasoline engine for longer distance travels. Learn more about charging a PHEV.
Hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) have a small electric motor along with an internal combustion engine. This leads to better fuel economy than a traditional gasoline engine while keeping the power, range, and convenience of a conventional vehicle.

HEVs are not plug-ins, as they can't be charged with electricity. HEV's energy comes from gasoline, and it generates electricity from regenerative braking and an electricity generator powered by the internal combustion motor. The battery is used to operate the vehicle at low speeds or when the vehicle is idling, leading to better fuel consumption and less pollution.
Each type of EV has varying levels of environmental impact and fossil fuel dependence, as illustrated in the graphic below:
A graphic comparing Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs), and Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) in terms of emissions and fuel dependency.

Need help determining which EV is the right fit for you? Explore resources such as Plug n’ Drive & CAA EV Buyers Guide.

Still Unsure About Switching to Electric?

Are you driving a gas-powered vehicle and need to understand how switching to electric impacts your lifestyle and wallet? Try our handy Comparison Tool to explore potential savings you can achieve by switching to electric. Our tool showcases a range of BEVs and PHEVs available in Canada, helping you make well-informed energy decisions. 

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Why Drive an EV