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All-Electric Vehicle Basics

An all-electric vehicle (EV) uses a battery to store the electrical energy that powers the motor.

Cutaway diagram of an all-electric vehicle showing components: thermal cooling system, auxiliary battery, DC/DC converter, power controller, onboard charger, transmission, electric traction motor, charge port, and traction battery pack.

EV batteries are charged by plugging the vehicle into an electric power source. They are also equipped with regenerative braking systems to capture the kinetic energy normally lost during braking and store it in the battery.

EVs typically require less maintenance than conventional vehicles because the battery, motor, and associated electronics require little to no regular upkeep. Plus, electric vehicles experience less brake wear thanks to regenerative braking and have fewer moving parts and fluids to change relative to conventional vehicles.


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Last Updated Aug. 27, 2025