Understanding the Differences Between Kia PHEV, EV, and HEV

If you've been consider switching to a greener vehicle, a Kia PHEV may be the right choice for you. Folsom Lake Kia in Folsom, CA, explains what all those letters mean.

What is an EV?

An EV is an all-electric vehicle. There's no internal combustion engine, or conventional transmission. The vehicle uses no oil, and no gas. The 2022 Kia Niro EV is an all-electric SUV.

A large battery powers an electric motor. To charge the battery, you'll have to plug in the car. If you don't have a plug, and your battery isn't charged, you won't be able to start the car, or go anywhere. Electricity is a must.

What is an HEV?

An HEV is a hybrid electric vehicle. An electric motor powered by a battery is teamed with an internal combustion engine that uses gas. The two work together to power the vehicle. The 2022 Kia Sorento Hybrid is an HEV.

When you're travelling at lower speeds, the electric motor will typically take over, and you'll run on electric power. When you accelerate and require more power, the gas engine kicks in.

You won't have to charge the electric motor; it self-charges simply by the act of driving the vehicle. It will also charge via regenerative braking, in which the energy required to brake is harnessed and stored in the battery.

What is a PHEV?

A PHEV is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle. The PHEV consists of both a gas-powered engine and an electric engine, much like the hybrid. However, in the PHEV, the two engines operate independently. Our Kia dealership offers two different PHEV vehicles, the Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid, and the Kia Sorento Plug-In Hybrid.

The electric engine has a larger battery, and can hold a bigger charge. This allows the vehicle to be driven further and more often on battery power alone. It also has regenerative braking, but you'll need to plug the car in to obtain a charge substantial enough to drive solely on electric power.

If you're taking a longer road trip, or haven't been able to charge your battery, you can still drive with the gas engine. You also have the option of turning your PHEV into just an HEV. If you never plug it in to charge it, but you fill up the gas tank, it will run like a hybrid.

Folsom Lake Kia can help you decide on the best vehicle to help you live your greenest life. We even offer Kia specials and incentives!