A Pure Electric, or Battery-Powered Electric Vehicle (BEV) gets all its power from its batteries and electric motors. It contains no internal combustion engine (ICE). Its electric motor uses batteries that are recharged by plugging in to an electric power source (a wall socket or EV charger). An example is the Chevrolet Bolt.

An Extended Range EV (EREV) has an auxiliary power unit (called a range extender) which increases the EREV’s driving range. Most range extenders are small internal combustion engines that drive an electric generator furnishing the electric batteries and motor with electricity. An example is the Extended Range BMW i3.

A Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) or Plug-In Hybrid, uses an electric motor and gas engine to operate. Its electric motor uses batteries that are recharged by plugging in to an electric power source (a wall socket or EV charger). The gas-powered motor can work together with the electric motor, or separately on its own, to power the powertrain. An example is the Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid.

A Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) is a type of hybrid vehicle and electric vehicle that combines a conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) propulsion system with an electric propulsion system (hybrid vehicle drivetrain). The presence of the electric powertrain is intended to achieve better fuel economy and performance. An example is the Toyota Prius Hybrid.