What Are Plug-In Electric Vehicles?
Plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) get their power from the electric grid.

There Are Two Kinds of PEVs

• Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) use both gasoline and electricity. PHEVs are similar to today’s hybrids but have larger batteries and a plug for charging.
• Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) use only electricity. BEVs do not use any gasoline.

Some PEVs Can Drive up to 100 Miles on One Charge
Different models of PEVs will have different ranges. PHEVs can travel about 40 miles using the electric motor before switching to the gasoline engine. Some BEVs may be able to travel as far as 100 miles before needing to be recharged.

PEVs Are a Realistic Option for Commuters
About 80 percent of commuters travel less than 50 miles to and from work, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation. With a possible range of up to 100 miles on one charge, PEVs are a realistic option for Austin commuters.

PEVs Are Easy to Charge
Most PEV owners will probably recharge their vehicles at home using a regular 110-volt household socket or a 220-volt socket with a special PEV plug. This 220-volt socket is similar to what an electric clothes dryer uses. (The 220-volt socket can be installed any time by an electrician.)

PEV owners will eventually be able to use a network of charging stations. PEVs will be able to plug in and charge up at work, in the store, or parked on a public street. Owners will be able to pay using credit or debit-type cards.

PEVs Cost Less to Drive

• Gasoline vehicles cost about 10 cents of gas per mile, assuming 30 miles per gallon and $3 a gallon gas
• PEVs will cost about 2.5 cents of electricity per mile, assuming 4 miles per kilowatt-hour and today’s average price of 10 cents per kilowatt-hour for electricity

PEVs Are Better for the Environment

• They can help clean our air.
• They can help reduce our use of fossil fuels.