The trend of hybrid and electric vehicles has been on the rise in recent years. The technology used in these sustainable mobility options has significantly evolved. Leading automakers and industry stakeholders are focused on increasing electric car range while reducing charging time. The concept of the extended-range electric vehicle (EREV), also known as the range-extended electric vehicle (REEV), is a significant development. It is a type of hybrid electric vehicle that operates in a unique way to extend the driving range.
Extended-Range Electric Vehicle EREV Explained
An EREV is a specific type of plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, which operates as a series hybrid. It is primarily powered by an electric motor and a battery pack, but it has a small internal combustion (petrol) engine on board.
The defining characteristic of an EREV is that the engine never directly drives the wheels. Instead, it acts purely as an onboard electrical generator. When the battery runs low, the petrol engine turns on simply to generate electricity, which recharges the battery and powers the electric motor to keep you moving.
How EREVs Differ from Standard Plug-in Hybrids (PHEVs)
EREVs and standard PHEVs have two major mechanical and practical differences:
Powertrain Setup
In a standard PHEV (a parallel hybrid), both the engine and the electric motor are mechanically connected to the wheels. This means the engine can take over and drive the car. In an EREV, the electric motor is the only thing that spins the wheels.
Battery Size and Range
EREVs are designed to be electric-first; they typically have much larger batteries than standard PHEVs. A standard PHEV usually offers 40 to 100 kilometres of electric-only range, whereas an EREV is typically designed to offer between 200 and 400 kilometres of electric driving before the generator assists.
These are the key differences between an extended range EV vs a hybrid.
Key Features of Extended Range Electric Vehicle Technology
Some of the noteworthy features of the EREV engine and battery system are:
Reduced Range Anxiety
Drivers get the daily benefits of an EV, but if they go on a long road trip or can’t find a charging station, they can simply fill up at a regular petrol station in minutes. This significantly reduces electric car range anxiety for motorists
EV Driving Experience
The wheels are exclusively driven by the electric motor, resulting in a smooth, quiet and instant acceleration. It is a similar experience to a fully electric vehicle.
Lower Daily Emissions and Fuel Costs
With electric ranges often exceeding 200 kilometres, most commutes and day-to-day trips will be completed entirely on electric power. This means an EREV rarely need to burn petrol, producing tailpipe emissions only when necessary.
EREV Cars in the UAE
The concept of EREV or REEV is gaining momentum in the UAE, as evident from many new and emerging automotive brands offering it. Popular Chinese automakers, such as EXEED, AVATR, Deepal and Forthing, among other brands, have EREVs in their lineups.
Many used and new electric cars for sale in the UAE have the range-extending technology incorporated, given the increased emphasis on efficiency in mobility.
FAQs
Do EREVs need to be charged like electric vehicles?
Yes, EREV can be plugged in for charging like any other electric car.
What are the advantages of an EREV?
Reduced range anxiety, a fully electric car driving experience and lower emissions are some of the EREV benefits.
Are EREVs suitable for long-distance driving in the UAE?
Yes, EREVs are suitable for driving long distances because the network of EV charging stations in the UAE is quite diverse. Moreover, EREV can also be refuelled at a petrol station.
This is everything you need to know about the extended-range electric vehicle (EREV). The technology aims to make longer journeys smoother and less concerning for motorists. However, before picking an EREV, it is important to compare parallel vs series hybrid and weigh the pros and cons of both technologies to make an informed choice.
For more informative pieces on emerging automotive technologies, stay connected to the UAE’s leading car blog.
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