What is an electric car?

An electric car or battery electric car is an automobile that is propelled by one or more electric motors, using energy stored in batteries. Compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, electric cars are quieter, have no exhaust emissions, and lower emissions overall. In the United States and the European Union, as of 2020, the total cost of ownership of recent electric vehicles is cheaper than that of equivalent ICE cars, due to lower fueling and maintenance costs. Charging an electric car can be done at a variety of charging stations; these charging stations can be installed in both houses and public areas.

Environmental aspects

Electric cars have less environmental impact than  internal combustion engine vehicles. While aspects of their production can induce similar, less or alternative environmental impacts, they produce little or no tailpipe emissions, and reduce dependence on petroleum and greenhouse gas emissions, and health effects from air pollution. Electric motors are significantly more efficient than internal combustion engines and thus, even accounting for typical power plan efficiencies and distribution losses, less energy is required to operate an EV. Manufacturing batteries for electric cars requires additional resources and energy, so they may have a larger environmental footprint from the production phase. EVs also generate different impacts in their operation and maintenance. EVs are typically heavier and could produce more tire, brake, and road dust air pollution, but their regenerative braking could reduce such particulate pollution from brakes. EVs are mechanically simpler, which reduces the use and disposal of engine oil.

Top Electric Vehicles

*Tesla Model 3 rises above the class in almost every area. It's fun to drive, practical and stylish. The touchscreen interface and lack of dedicated smartphone integration can be annoyance at times, but overall the 3 is a great pick for an EV.

*  The Polestar 2 is the first all-electric model from Volvo's upstart brand. It boasts excellent driving dynamics, strong tech backed by Google, and a user-friendly interface. It's a bit pricey even when factoring in available tax credits, and on the cozier side in terms of interior space.