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Electric vehicles are gradually becoming more popular, with a range of manufacturers offering their take on electric models. In the coming years, more drivers will be plugging their cars in to charge, rather than filling up with fuel, and with this change comes a range of new technologies and terms to understand.
From electric car range to types of chargers and internal technology, becoming more familiar with electric-car jargon means you can gain a clearer understanding of this new, sustainable way of travelling.
We’ve put together an EV glossary containing every electric vehicle term you may need to know to help you learn more about how these vehicles work.
The following are essential words and phrases you’ll need to know when navigating the world of electric cars. They’re some of the most common terms you’re likely to encounter when exploring EVs:
BEV is an abbreviation for ‘battery electric vehicle’. The term refers to vehicles that are powered solely by a battery.
HEV stands for hybrid electric vehicle. These vehicles are powered by an internal combustion engine as well as an electric motor. These vehicles can only operate on electric power at lower speeds, and rely on a fuel-powered engine most of the time. They cannot be charged externally.
This is the abbreviation given to a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle. This type of vehicle is powered by an electric motor and a petrol or diesel engine. They can be driven electrically, but when the battery needs to be recharged, the engine will engage. Unlike HEV, they can be charged externally.
ZEV stands for zero-emission vehicle. This term is used to describe electric vehicles that don’t have a tailpipe, and therefore cannot produce CO2 emissions into the atmosphere. These vehicles are 100% electric. ZEV could also be known as a BEV.
Technology exclusively designed by BYD, the Super DM (Dual Mode) Technology uses a high-powered motor and a battery as its power source, using an engine only when necessary. It’s an intelligent plug-in hybrid that comes with a range of benefits including energy efficiency, low fuel consumption, driving performance and comfort.
An abbreviation for internal combustion engine. The term is often used to describe traditional fuel-powered cars. You’ll often see this abbreviation when comparing fuel-powered vehicles with electric vehicles - for example, ICE vs EV.
Electric-vehicle terms are new to many drivers, especially when it comes to the technical details. To help you manage electric-vehicle jargon, here are some of the most common terms used to describe internal EV technology:
This is the heart of the EV. The motor converts electrical power into mechanical energy by running a current through its circuits. A magnetic field then turns a rotor within a cylinder, which turns the wheels of the vehicle. The motor is the element that gives an EV power.
The battery pack refers to the EVs entire battery structure. It includes cells and modules that make up the battery, as well as the enclosure and structure of the battery.
This term refers to a system that ensures each cell within the battery is draining at roughly the same time. It helps to optimise the overall battery life of an EV, preventing overcharging and managing heating and cooling mechanisms.
BHS, an abbreviation for battery heating systems, ensures the battery pack remains at an optimal temperature for operating, because the battery life of an EV can be impacted by colder temperatures.
CTB technology's meaning is unique to BYD. Developed in-house, cell-to-body technology integrates BYD’s Blade Battery into the body of BYD vehicles, creating a ‘sandwich’ structure that can withstand greater force. This results in higher levels of rigidity, delivering better handling and stability for an improved driving experience.
This abbreviation stands for Intelligence Torque Adaptation Control system. BYD vehicles that feature this system, including the BYD Seal, are at less risk of skidding whilst driving at higher speeds. The system manages torque intelligently to harness the power of the car, to enhance safety and driving experience.
The Blade Battery is a component of all BYD EVs and PHEVs. It is a much safer, long-lasting, and more efficient EV battery that’s been developed to save space and boost performance. Unlike most EV batteries, it’s been through rigorous testing to ensure improved safety. The BYD Blade Battery is also one of the most durable options on the market.
An electric powertrain is the component within the electric vehicle which propels it forward, giving it the power to drive. BYD has developed an 8-in-1 electric powertrain including an on-board charger, drive motor and transmission that integrates vertically into BYD vehicles. The powertrain optimises space and enhances energy efficiency.
BYD has produced a highly efficient heat pump that uses heat from all internal areas of the vehicle, including the powertrain and batteries. This system reduces energy loss and ensures the vehicle can operate effectively even at lower temperatures.
One of the most notable differences between ICE vehicles and EVs is the way they’re fuelled. Charging terms also feature jargon that drivers may never have encountered before, including:
This refers to the time it takes to charge your EV. Various elements can have an impact on this, including battery size, charging station power, and how much charge your EV had before you plugged it in.
The charging curve is a visual tool that helps drivers determine how much energy their EV takes in over the time it’s charging. For example, drivers will notice that charging slows as it approaches full charge. This is why many EVs recommend charging to 80%. With a BYD Blade Battery, you don’t have to worry about charging to 100%, as it’s designed for maximum strength and a prolonged lifecycle.
Range refers to how far an electric vehicle can drive on one single charge. The range of an EV is essential to consider — whether you’re making the switch from an ICE vehicle or looking to upgrade your current electric car. All EVs have different ranges, so thinking about your average journey length is essential.
This abbreviation stands for Range Per Hour. It’s the metric used to calculate the power of EV chargers, allowing drivers to estimate how far they can go after plugging in for a certain length of time.
This refers to any public charging point. This could be at a motorway service station, shopping centre, or workplace. It allows EV drivers to top up their charge when on the go.
State of charge (SOC) represents energy levels as a percentage, showing how far drivers can travel before running out of battery. SOC also has an impact on how long it takes for your car to charge fully.
Not all EV chargers are the same, so it helps to know more about each to identify which is best for your car:
A type 1 charger has a 5-pin plug and a clip and charges at up to 7kW. This type of connector is common in the United States.
The type 2 charger features a 7-pin plug with one flat edge. It charges at up to 250kW. Developed by European brands, it’s now a popular option for all cars. It allows for fast charging and locks into the socket of a charging point.
A round four-pin plug is used for rapid charging, charging up to 100kw. This connector is popular with Asian car brands and can offer vehicle-to-grid charging.
This is an abbreviation for a combined charging system. It’s one of the most common EV connectors. It charges up to 350kW, is standardised by the EU and is identifiable by two DC pins arranged beneath a type 2 connector.
Slow charging (7kW) is used for home charging points, allowing drivers to top up overnight whilst preserving their battery’s health.
Fast chargers (up to 22kW) can be found in public areas like supermarkets, car parks, and leisure centres. Charging rates can differ depending on an EV’s battery.
Rapid chargers (up to 50kW) can charge your EV 80% in as little as 10-15 minutes. Drivers need to check their EV is compatible with rapid charging before plugging in.
This refers to the functions of wifi-connected charge points. This type of charging allows drivers to charge their vehicles remotely, when energy demand is low, reducing costs. This can be done via an app depending on your energy provider.
Below, we’ll look at some commonly used electric vehicle terms related to driving:
This is an abbreviation for the worldwide harmonised light vehicles test procedure. This is a modern test that measures fuel efficiency, consumption, and emissions in the real world. It helps drivers to determine how energy efficient their vehicles are in terms they can relate to everyday journeys.
This term refers to the worry drivers may feel when travelling longer distances. With range anxiety, drivers worry that their vehicle may run out of charge on their journey and that they may not be able to find a charging station along the way.
All-electric range tells drivers how far it’s possible to drive using its battery. When used in relation to HEVs and PHEVs, it lets drivers know how far they can travel before the internal engine engages.
A Kilowatt-hour is the measure of the rate at which energy is used over time. The higher the kWh, the more energy for your EV. The measurement tracks how much energy is being added to an EV whilst charging.
Electric vehicles recapture the energy lost when a driver presses the brakes. This energy then recharges the battery.
Using a glossary of terms to help you navigate the world of electric cars can make switching to an EV seem less daunting. Understanding frequently used jargon can help you make a decision when buying a new electric car and means you can learn more about how new, advanced technology works to benefit drivers and the planet.
BYD has developed industry-leading technology to enhance EVs, implementing new technology into all BYD electric cars for an elevated driving experience.
