Shopping for an EV can be a bit bewildering if you’re new to the terminology used to describe the electric vehicle (EV) ownership experience. Here are some terms you might want to know before you shop for your EV. 

EV Terms You Should Know 

AER (all-electric range)

The range (mileage) that the vehicle can reach only using the battery power.    

Battery management system

An electronic system that helps manage that battery’s power, monitors its status, confirms safe operating conditions and updates the owner via the dash control panel.      

EV (electric vehicle)

Any vehicle that uses a battery as part of or completely for power.    

HEV (hybrid electric vehicle)

An electric vehicle that uses both a battery and gas for power. Usually the internal combustion engine (ICE) is used to help maintain a charge in the battery. This helps the vehicle get a larger and more eco-friendly mpg. 

kW (kilowatt)

The unit of power used to describe EV batteries.     

kWh (kilowatt-hour)

How many kilowatts (how much power) the EV battery can provide over a period of hours.    

Level 1 charging

For plug-in vehicles, this is the type of charging that most often happens at the vehicle owner’s home. It’s done with a standard 120-volt outlet and can be completed with a charging cord.  

Level 2 charging

Considered fast charging, this uses 240 volts and is often what is found at charging stations that have been specifically installed to accommodate plug-in vehicles. These may be professionally installed at homes as well, and offers about 26 miles per hour of charging. 

Level 3 charging

Currently the fastest level of charging available and can generally power a vehicle’s battery in about 30 minutes. Also known as DC fast chargers, these are usually what you would find at a station. Electrify America’s networks use Level 3 chargers, allowing drivers to get a full battery in only 30 minutes. 

Li-ion

Refers to a lithium ion battery, which is the base for the chemical composition of most EV batteries.  

PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle)

The same idea as a HEV, PHEVs utilize both a battery and gas fuel, but the battery is larger on a PHEV and allows for plug-in charging.    

Range

How far (how many miles) an EV can travel using only power from the battery.   

Range anxiety

Range anxiety is the concern that you might run out of power before reaching your destination while driving your electric vehicle.    

RPH (range per hour)

How much range (mileage) you will get from an hour of charging.    

Know the Lingo

Now that you know some of the specialized EV terms, you’re ready to shop like a pro! If you’re out on the lot and a sales associate uses a term you don’t know, just ask what it means! The EV community and sales teams are happy to guide newcomers to learn all the ins and outs of EV ownership.   

Find your new EV

Contact any of our dealerships to learn more about a new or certified pre-owned EV that could be right for you.