EVs are powered by electricity stored in an energy storage device such as a rechargeable battery pack.

TECHNOLOGY
In EVs, an electric motor replaces gasoline engine used to power and turn wheels , a controller powers the electric motor and rechargeable batteries power the vehicle controller.1

TYPES

• Full-size EVs are emerging in the marketplace. Tesla motors has developed 2 high-performance luxury vehicles with limited availability. Chevy has also come out with a full size EV for 2010.

• Neighborhood EVs are street legal, low-speed vehicles that are great for short trips around town. Typical top speed range from 25-35 mph.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
Depending on power mix used by local utility, electricity used to charge EVs can rely on fossil fuels. Still, EVs have zero exhaust emissions with significantly less pollution and GHG impacts than traditional gasoline powered vehicles. Battery disposal is also an environmental concern.

BENEFITS
EVs are quiet, efficient, and economical. Charging costs are substantially more cost-effective compared to traditional gasoline vehicles and typically use domestically produced power. EVs have zero emissions other than emissions associated with power mix provided by utility.

DISADVANTAGES
Driving range is limited and recharge time can be long depending on make and model. Battery replacement cost can also be very high and there is a lack of trained mechanics to work on EVs.2

VALLEY ACCESS POTENTIAL
Full size EVs have extremely limited availability nationwide. NEV dealerships have emerged throughout the Valley over the last few years increasing access and availability.

For more information on EVs visit the U.S. Dept. of Energy at
www.afdc.energy.gov/afdc/vehicles/electric.html

1 How Stuff Works http://auto.howstuffworks.com/electric-car.htm (last accessed April 23, 2009)
2 EPA http://www.fueleconomy.gov/Feg/evtech.shtml (last accessed April 23, 2009)