Types of Electric Vehicles in Roanoke, VA

All the Electrified Vehicle Options in Roanoke, VA

For modern car shoppers, there is a wealth of models available in the electrified vehicle segments. If you’re one of the car buyers comparing your EV options, you might be a little confused by the many powertrain options. There are three primary types of electrified vehicles: BEVs, PHEVs, and HEVs. Each has its benefits and drawbacks. Determining which one is the right fit for you depends on your driving habits and your budget.

Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs)

BEV stands for Battery Electric Vehicles. Models in the sub-segment are fully electric. Instead of using an engine fueled by gas, BEV powertrains consist of a motor or a set of motors powered by a battery pack(s). These vehicles allow drivers to skip the gas pump entirely and significantly reduce their carbon footprint (BEVs don’t produce tailpipe emissions.)

If you travel often or find yourself regularly pressed for time, owning a BEV will either be a blessing or a curse. Electricity currently costs far less than gasoline, and most EVs have a driving range of 250 miles or more, so “fueling up” for long road trips will hurt your pockets less. On the other hand, you’ll need to plan your trips more carefully because, although there is a growing number of EV charging stations throughout the U.S. (especially here on the East Coast), it may be harder to find a place to refresh your vehicle when it’s time for a pitstop. Which brings us to the next point. Owners of BEVs like the XC40 Recharge can either charge their vehicles overnight at home using a Level 2 charger or top off their batteries at public charging stations with DC Fast Chargers. That means if you remember to charge at home, you’ll never have to stop for gas during your daily routine. However, if you need to use a public charger, you’ll spend a great deal more time at a charging station than you would at a gas pump.

Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles

If you’re a member of the chronically pressed-for-time crew, you’re not alone, but Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles like the XC60 Recharge are perfect for the fast-paced American life. These vehicles have the best of both worlds. They still use gasoline, and they don’t reduce carbon emissions as much as EVs, but they still make a big impact. Their powertrains have a gas-powered engine complemented by an electric motor and a small battery pack. They, too, can be charged using home charging or charging stations, and most models provide an electric-only driving range of up to 40 miles. Their smaller batteries mean less recharging time, and their range can grant most owners a gas-free commute. But even if you forget to juice up your battery at home, you’ll be able to fall back on gasoline fuel when needed.

Hybrid Electric Vehicles

Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) are similar to PHEVs as they both have powertrains that combine an engine and electric motor. Where they differ is that HEVs rely completely on regenerative braking to keep their batteries charged. They also don’t have an electric-only driving mode. Instead, the motors in HEVs work in tandem with the engine, boosting horsepower and stretching the vehicle's fuel efficiency. Models like the Volvo XC40 reduce the release of pollutants by using less fuel which will also save you money.

If you’re exploring electric vehicle options in Roanoke, VA, Berglund Volvo of Roanoke offers a full lineup of electrified vehicles with all three powertrain options. Speak with our team about your driving habits, environmental goals, and your budget, and we’ll help you find a model that matches your lifestyle.