With rising petrol costs, the phasing out of traditional combustion engines, government rebates and increased focus on infrastructure, there is no doubt that Electric Cars are the way of the future.

However, the Electric Vehicle (or EV) landscape can be a tricky one for newcomers… Understanding the various types of EVs, the set-up needed to own and charge one, and the logistics and considerations required for taking longer trips are just a few examples of what owners need to navigate. The Drive Electric Car hub provides everything you need to make this new world a little easier to understand.

Which EV is right for you?

Which EV is right for you?

Are you thinking about getting a Electric car but not sure where to start? We can help!

Types of Electric Cars

Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) – “Hybrid”

A closed-loop hybrid is currently the most common type of electrified vehicle. Hybrids combine a traditional petrol engine with a battery and electric motor to reduce fuel consumption. The battery in the hybrid is charged through driving so they never need to be plugged in. Brands who produce hybrids include Toyota, Lexus, Kia and Haval.

Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) – “Plug-in”

Like a hybrid, PHEVs feature a petrol engine that works in tandem with an electric motor. Here though, the battery is bigger, allowing a PHEV to drive anywhere from 40 to 100km on electric power alone. As the name suggests, PHEVs need to be plugged in to recharge the battery. Brands who produce plug-in hybrids include Mitsubishi, Ford, Peugeot and BMW.

Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) – “EV”

The poster children of electric cars, EVs are fully-electric vehicles featuring a large battery array that powers one or more electric motors. With driving ranges of anywhere between 250 to 600km, EVs require charging, either at home or at public charging stations. Brands who produce EVs include Audi, Nissan, MG and of course, Tesla.

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Electric Car Finder

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A short history of Electric Vehicles

Sebring-Vanguard Citicar

1974

The Sebring-Vanguard Citicar offered around 64km range at up to 60km/h. Over 4000 were built.
General Motors EV1

1996

The GM EV-1 was the first 'big brand' electric car. With a 26kWh battery, it had a range of about 130km.
First Toyota Prius Hybrid

1997

The launch of the hybrid Toyota Prius marked a significant step in eco-friendly transportation.
Tesla Roadster

2008

The original Tesla Roadster was based on a Lotus Elise and featured a 53kWh battery.
Mitsubishi i-MiEV released

2009

The 16kWh Mitsubishi i-MiEV was the world's first modern highway-capable mass-production EV.
Nissan Leaf launched

2010

The Nissan Leaf was the first mass-produced all-electric vehicle for the global market.
First plug-in hybrid (PHEV)

2011

The original plug-in Chevrolet (Holden) Volt, had a range of around 61km, as well as a petrol engine.
Tesla Model S launched

2012

The Tesla Model S was the first ground-up EV from the US brand.
BMW i3 launched

2013

The BMW i3 was the world's 'greenest' car and used innovative design and lightweight materials.
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV arrives in Australia

2014

The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV was the first plug-in hybrid SUV.
Tesla Model 3 launched

2016

With an affordable price and impressive range, the Model 3 brought electric cars to a broader audience.
Faster than fast!

2018

The VW ID R's record-setting run at Pikes Peak showcased the potential of EVs for competition.
Sales milestone

2020

In 2020, global electric vehicle sales topped the 10-million mark.
Changing times

2023

The Tesla Model Y becomes the best-selling car in Europe. The first time for an electric vehicle.

Latest Electric Car News

Electric Mercedes-Benz C-Class caught on camera
News | 21 Dec 2023

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is expected to be the German car-maker’s next model to receive the electric treatment in 2025.

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Tesla Cybertruck amphibious option pack in development, Musk claims
News | 20 Dec 2023

After claiming the Tesla Cybertruck would be able to float, Elon Musk now says a “mod pack” is being developed to turn it into a boat.

2024 Polestar 4 price and specs
News | 19 Dec 2023

The Polestar 4 will be priced to compete with a Tesla Model Y, but many features are in option packs which can total more than $30,000.

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Hydrogen and electric truck company founder jailed for fraud
News | 19 Dec 2023

Nikola Corportation’s founder Trevor Milton will spend four years behind bars for making false statements about the firm’s products.

2024 Renault Kangoo E-Tech electric van price and specs
News | 19 Dec 2023

The new Renault Kangoo is launching in Australia with electric power first, priced from $62,000. Petrol or diesel models are due to follow.

Germany ends electric-car subsidies, France excludes Chinese-made cars from its rebates
News | 19 Dec 2023

The cost of partially funding electric-car purchases has reportedly cost the German government 10 billion Euros since 2014.

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