Fun Facts About Electric Cars

When you think about electric cars, you might think of mild-mannered vehicles that are great for the environment. But, you might be surprised to hear just how diverse and innovative this segment has become over the years. Learn some fun facts about electric cars with Suntrup Automotive Group, and take a test drive in a new EV or hybrid in St. Louis!

The First EV was Built in the 1800s

Did you know that the first electric car was built way back in 1884? Thomas Park set forth to electrify the overhead tramways in London. In the process of designing and building a suitable system, he created the first electric vehicle. These cars were built with high-capacity rechargeable batteries, and they changed the automotive landscape forever.

EVs Include Cars, Transit Buses, Trucks, & More!

Many St. Charles drivers picture electric cars as smaller sedans, but the EV segment is incredibly diverse. Not only can you find sedans and SUVs with all-electric powertrains, but more and more commercial vehicles making the switch from gas as well. Look for electric buses, FedEx, and heavy-duty zero-emissions trucks throughout the Fenton area.

EVs Can be Charged at Home, Work, or the Store.

Electric vehicle chargers are popping up all over the St. Louis area. While most drivers know that you can set up a home charging station for convenience, it’s not your only option to top off your battery. Charging stations are available at worksites, grocery stores, malls, apartment buildings, and plenty of stores. That means you can charge at home or on the go with ease.

There are Five Types of Electric Vehicles.

One of the lesser-known facts about electric cars is that there are actually five different types. How many do you know?

1. Battery EVs have an electric motor and large-capacity battery to power the ride. Recharged from a power grid, their range is typically between 100 and 200 miles per charge.
2. Plug-In Hybrids combine the motor and battery combination of an EV with the internal combustion engine of a traditional gas-powered car. These vehicles can run on either pure electricity, pure gas, or a combination. Their EV range is around 30 to 40 miles per charge.
3. Hybrid EVs use internal combustion engines and a smaller battery pack, which is charged by the engine or through regenerative braking. Hybrids cannot run on electricity alone, but the electricity supplements the engine to boost fuel economy.
4. Extended-Range EVs feature the largest battery pack of all, and many are supplemented by a small internal combustion engine to act as a generator. They have the longest range of all, offering well over 200 miles on pure electricity.
5. Neighborhood EVs are smaller models that fall into the “low-speed vehicles” category. Most neighborhood EVs only reach a maximum speed of 30 mph with a maximum loaded weight of around 3,000 pounds.

Learn More About Electric Vehicles with Suntrup Automotive Group!

Now that you know more fun facts about electric cars, why not take an EV for a spin? Whether you’re looking for a brand new car or a used EV, visit Suntrup Automotive Group in St. Louis to take a test drive today. Contact us with any questions in the meantime, and learn more about electric car service while you’re here!