What Are EVs?

"EV" stands for electric vehicle and refers to any vehicle that is propelled by an electric motor. Electricity for these motors can be accessed anywhere electricity can be retrieved with a standard plug or special connector, and is generally stored in on-board batteries.

There are two main types of plug-in electric vehicles: one is fully electric and the other is a plug-in electric hybrid vehicle (PEHV). Plug-in electric hybrids use both battery packs and internal combustion engines (ICE). Many EVs can travel between 60-100 miles before needing to be recharged.

Hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) also rely on the combination of batteries and ICEs for power. However, these vehicles cannot be plugged into the electrical grid; instead, they use "regenerative braking," which recharges a HEV's batteries when the brakes are applied. They also use their motors as generators for recharging.

Many companies now manufacture their own brand of EV chargers and commonly supply them to other businesses, universities and cities. Most EV charging is done at home using specially designed in-home chargers.

The positive impact electric cars will have on our environment make them a highly anticipated automotive trend, and Riverside Public Utilities is joining in. In February of this year, RPU added to its fleet of cleaner cars with the purchase of a Chevy Volt. The 2011 North American Car of the year will be used in day-to-day operations as well as community events.

Increased electric car ownership will mean a higher demand for electricity, and Riverside Public Utilities can meet that demand to accommodate our customers.

For more information on electric vehicles, including how much they cost and where to charge them, click on one of the helpful links below or go to www.projectgetready.com.