Electromobility easily explained: A guide for electric car newcomers
The world of electric mobility can be overwhelming for newcomers, especially when it comes to buying electric cars or hybrid vehicles. This article provides a clear explanation of the most important technical terms that occur in connection with electromobility.
Buying an electric car: basic considerations
Before you buy an electric car, you should ask yourself two basic questions:
- Is an electric vehicle suitable for everyday use?
- Is electromobility economical for me?
Factors such as range, charging times and the existing charging infrastructure should be taken into account when testing practicality. In terms of economy, it is about the total cost compared to traditional combustion engines.
The most important technical terms
There are different types of electric vehicles: pure electric cars, plug-in hybrids and fuel cell vehicles. Here, pure electric cars that are 100 percent battery-powered are taken a closer look.
Abbreviations from English that appear frequently:
- EV: "electric vehicle"
- BEV: „battery electric vehicle“ (reines Elektroauto)
- HEV: "hybrid electric vehicle"
- PHEV: "plug-in hybrid electric vehicle"
- FCV: "fuel cell vehicle"
- FCEV: „fuel cell electric vehicle“ (Elektroauto mit Brennstoffzelle)
Accumulator and range
Electric cars use an accumulator (rechargeable battery) as a rechargeable energy storage device. Lithium-ion batteries are currently common, their capacity varies between 20 and 60 kWh. The range depends on consumption, which is around 12 to 15 kWh per 100 kilometres.
"Range extenders" are small power generators that are intended to extend the range in emergency situations. Supercapacitors, an alternative technology to batteries, enable shorter charging times.
Charging power / charging time
The charging power influences the charging time of an electric car. Approximate values per hour:
- Normal household socket: 3.5 kW
- Normal charging station / wallbox: 10-22 kW
- Fast charging station: up to 50 kW
- Tesla Supercharger: 135 kW
- CCS: up to 170 kW
The charging infrastructure, especially along the routes used regularly, should be taken into account when making a purchase decision.
What questions to clarify before buying?
When deciding on an electric car, you should clarify:
- Required range
- Charging locations
- Desired loading speed
- Buying or renting the battery
Installing a wallbox at home can improve charging times. Batteries are often rented because they are replaced by the manufacturer over the warranty period.
Costs and efficiency of e-mobility
The total cost per kilometre for electric cars is often higher than for combustion engines, despite government subsidies. However, efficiency gains and falling battery costs could lead to a cost reduction. The E-license plate offers additional advantages such as tax breaks and special rights in traffic.
Choosing an electric car requires careful consideration of the costs and benefits. Knowledge of the most important terms makes it easier to get started with electric mobility.