Electricity can be used to power electric or hybrid electric vehicles directly from a power grid, with power being stored in the vehicle’s batteries. The electricity powers the vehicle's wheels via an electric motor. Many electric vehicles (EVs) can be powered and charged by a simple electric outlet found in the home, increasing our energy independence. Electricity fueling costs for EVs are reasonable compared to gasoline, especially if consumers take advantage of off-peak rates. However, electricity costs vary across the US depending on location and time of use. Some states provide public access outlets as a solution, like at libraries, shopping malls, and hospitals.
Emissions are produced from electricity generation but the vehicles themselves produce no tailpipe emissions. These vehicles, especially hybrid electric vehicles, are competitively priced and very inexpensive to operate and maintain. Furthermore, there are many federal and state incentives to encourage the use of electricity as fuel.
Hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) combine the internal combustion engine of a gasoline vehicle with the battery and electric motor of an electric vehicle. Hybrid vehicles could also potentially use other fuels besides gasoline, like ethanol, biodiesel, or natural gas. HEVs can also travel much further on one gallon of gas, approximately 40 to 70 miles, depending on the make and model.
Links
- Electric Drive Transportation Association»
- The Electrification Coalition»
- Plug In America»
- To learn more about electricity as a fuel, please visit the Department of Energy's Alternative Fuel Data Center.
- To find out more about electric vehicles that are currently available, please Download the Vehicle Buyer's Guide.
- For electric charging stations near you, please visit the Alternative Fuel Data Center's Station Locator.
- For the latest news on electricity as fuel, please visit our Delicious page.
