Car & Automotive Terms Glossary

Definition: A vehicle powered entirely by an electric motor using energy stored in rechargeable battery packs, with no internal combustion engine.

 

 

 

Examples: Tesla Model 3, Nissan Leaf, Chevrolet Bolt.

Definition: An electric vehicle that includes a small gasoline engine used to generate electricity to extend the driving range when the battery is depleted.

 

 

Examples: BMW i3 REx.

Definition: A vehicle that combines an internal combustion engine with an electric motor, where the battery is charged through regenerative braking and the engine, not by plugging in.

 

 

Examples: Toyota Prius, Honda Insight.

Definition: A vehicle that combines an internal combustion engine with an electric motor and a rechargeable battery, which can be charged via an external power source.

 

 

Examples: Toyota Prius Prime, Ford Escape PHEV.

Definition: An electric vehicle equipped with a small internal combustion engine that acts as a generator to recharge the battery, extending the vehicle’s range.

 

Examples: BMW i3 with Range Extender.

Definition: A vehicle that emits significantly lower levels of harmful emissions compared to conventional vehicles.

 

 

 

Examples: Most EVs and hybrids qualify; e.g., Honda Clarity, Toyota Prius.

• Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) 
• Extended-Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) 
• Hybrid (HEV) 
• Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) 
• Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) 
• Range-Extended Electric Vehicle (REx) 
• Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV)
  
• Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV)

Definition: A vehicle that does not emit any harmful pollutants or greenhouse gases from the onboard source of power.

 

 

Examples: Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) like the Tesla Model 3 or the Zero SR/F motorcycle.