With the rapid growth of electromobility, numerous terms have emerged to describe different types of vehicle powertrains. EV, BEV, PHEV, HEV, MHEV and FCEV are acronyms that are increasingly appearing in vehicle specifications and materials related to vehicle charging.
However, not every electrified vehicle is an electric vehicle, and not every one can be connected to a charger. Let's take a closer look at the key differences.
EV – Electric Vehicle
EV (Electric Vehicle) is a general term used to describe an electric vehicle. In everyday language, this acronym is often used as a synonym for a fully electric car. In practice, however, the term EV covers various types of vehicles that use electricity for propulsion, which is why it is worth paying attention to more specific designations, particularly BEV, PHEV and HEV.
BEV – Battery Electric Vehicle
BEV is a fully electric vehicle. It does not have a conventional internal combustion engine for propulsion, and all the energy required for driving is stored in the traction battery.
BEVs can be charged using a home wallbox, a workplace AC charger, or public DC fast charging stations.
This category of vehicle generates the greatest demand for charging infrastructure and forms the foundation of the transition towards electrified transportation.
PHEV – Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle
PHEV is a plug-in hybrid vehicle.
It combines an internal combustion engine, an electric motor and a rechargeable battery that can be charged from an external power source.
This enables a PHEV to complete part of everyday journeys using electric power alone. To maximise the benefits of this powertrain, the battery should be charged regularly.
From the perspective of charging infrastructure users, PHEVs, like BEVs, require access to EV charging stations.
HEV – Hybrid Electric Vehicle
HEV is a conventional hybrid vehicle.
It combines an internal combustion engine with an electric motor, but unlike a PHEV, it cannot be plugged into a charger.
The small battery is charged while driving, primarily through regenerative braking.
The driver does not need access to external charging infrastructure, as the energy management system operates automatically.
MHEV – Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle
MHEV, or a mild hybrid vehicle, uses a small electrical system to support the operation of the internal combustion engine.
It can assist during vehicle start-up and acceleration, while also recovering some energy during braking.
The most important thing for drivers to remember: MHEVs cannot be charged using an EV charger.
In this case, the electrical system serves only as a support system rather than the primary source of propulsion.
FCEV – Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle
FCEV is an electric vehicle powered by fuel cells, most commonly hydrogen fuel cells.
Electricity is generated within the fuel cell and used to power the electric drivetrain.
An FCEV cannot be connected to a standard EV charger. Instead, hydrogen is replenished at dedicated hydrogen refuelling stations.
This technology represents an alternative path for the development of electromobility, particularly for heavy-duty vehicles and specialised applications.
Which Vehicles Can Be Charged Using an EV Charger?
The simplest classification is as follows:
- BEV – YES – fully electric vehicle.
- PHEV – YES – plug-in hybrid vehicle.
- HEV – NO – conventional hybrid vehicle.
- MHEV – NO – mild hybrid vehicle.
- FCEV – NO – fuel cell electric vehicle.
This distinction is particularly important for companies planning to expand their vehicle fleets. If BEV or PHEV vehicles are being introduced, the appropriate charging infrastructure should be planned alongside them.
Lenergizee – Charging Solutions Designed for Electromobility
The growing popularity of BEV and PHEV vehicles means that the ability to charge a vehicle at office car parks, residential developments, hotels or commercial facilities is becoming an increasingly expected standard.
Lenergizee develops solutions for electric vehicle charging that address both current user needs and the future growth of electromobility.
BEV or PHEV vehicles in your fleet? Ensure convenient and reliable charging with Lenergizee.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Can every hybrid vehicle be charged using an EV charger?
No. Only plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) can be charged using an EV charger. Conventional hybrids (HEVs) and mild hybrids (MHEVs) do not require connection to an external power source.
What is the difference between a BEV and a PHEV?
A BEV is a fully electric vehicle powered exclusively by energy stored in its battery. A PHEV combines an electric drivetrain with an internal combustion engine.
What does the acronym EV mean?
EV stands for Electric Vehicle. The term is commonly used as a general description for vehicles that use electricity for propulsion.
Can an FCEV be charged using a wallbox?
No. FCEVs use hydrogen fuel cells and require refuelling at dedicated hydrogen stations.
Why are companies investing in EV charging stations?
The growing number of BEV and PHEV vehicles in corporate and private fleets makes charging infrastructure an important element of modern parking facilities and commercial properties.
Which vehicles require EV charging infrastructure?
Charging infrastructure is primarily required for BEVs and PHEVs. Wallboxes as well as public AC and DC charging stations are specifically designed for these types of vehicles.
