Hybrid cars are evolving rapidly and, among the most interesting solutions of recent years, REEVs (Range Extended Electric Vehicles) stand out. These are vehicles that combine the advantages of electric driving with the reassurance of extended range, without the typical limitations of charging infrastructure. But what really makes them different from other hybrids?
What is meant by range extender
A range extender car is an electric vehicle equipped with an internal combustion engine that is not used to drive the wheels, but exclusively to recharge the battery when its charge level drops. This system is called a range extender and identifies a family of vehicles also known as Extended Range Electric Vehicles (EREV), BEVx or ERAV, depending on the manufacturer.
How the range extender works
Understanding how a range extender works is simpler than it seems.
In a range extender vehicle, traction is provided exclusively by the electric motor, powered by a battery that can also be charged via an external power source.
When the battery runs low, the internal combustion engine starts automatically, not to drive the vehicle, but to power a generator that produces electricity.
Operating at a constant and optimal speed, this engine is more efficient than that of a traditional vehicle, reducing both fuel consumption and emissions.
REEV, BEV and PHEV: what are the differences?
In the hybrid vehicle landscape, it is useful to distinguish three main categories:
BEVs (Battery Electric Vehicles) are fully electric and rely entirely on charging infrastructure;
PHEVs (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles) combine a combustion engine and an electric motor, both capable of driving the wheels;
REEVs, on the other hand, maintain 100% electric traction: the combustion engine only acts as a generator and is never directly connected to the wheels.
A subtle but fundamental distinction for the driving experience.
Range and consumption of range extender hybrid cars
One of the key strengths of range extender hybrid vehicles is their range. In full electric mode, these vehicles can travel between 70 and 150 km, more than enough for daily commuting.
When the battery is depleted, the range extender kicks in, extending the total range up to 1,000 km. The battery is smaller than that of a pure BEV, leaving space for a fuel tank under the front hood.
Advantages and disadvantages of range extender vehicles
Choosing a range extender vehicle means weighing an overall positive balance. Here are the main pros and cons:
Advantages:
- No charging anxiety: the combustion engine automatically activates when the battery is depleted
- Lower emissions in urban driving thanks to 100% electric traction
- More efficient combustion engine, as it operates at a constant speed as a generator
- Lower operating costs compared to traditional combustion vehicles
- Smaller and less expensive battery compared to full BEVs
Disadvantages:
- Higher purchase price compared to traditional combustion vehicles
- Slightly higher operating costs than pure BEVs due to occasional use of the combustion engine
- Increased overall weight due to the presence of both the battery and the engine-generator system
Who are REEV cars suitable for?
Range extender cars are the ideal choice for those who travel short urban distances daily, making full use of electric mode, but occasionally undertake long journeys. They are also perfect for those living in areas with limited charging infrastructure who want to transition towards electric driving without giving up the reassurance of a traditional fuel tank.
In short, a range extended electric vehicle offers the best of both worlds: the silent efficiency of electric driving and the long-distance freedom of combustion engines.
Do you need a logistics partner up to date with the latest industry developments to manage your vehicle fleet? Discover all our services or contact us for a consultation!