The Covid pandemic may have slowed auto production but not car manufacturers’ plans for new electric vehicles. Over 30 all-new, pure EV models are set to debut by the end of 2024. The rollout of new electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids and traditional hybrids is good news if you’re looking for an alternative-fuel vehicle.
Are you thinking about buying an electric vehicle? Research is key
The popularity of electric vehicles is undeniable. Sales of electric vehicles hit 6.6 million globally in 2021. The decision on whether to buy an electric vehicle will likely depend on your budget and how much importance you place on moving away from fossil-fuel-powered cars sooner rather than later. Before buying an electric vehicle, it is important to distinguish between hybrid, plug-in hybrid and fully electric. It is important to understand how they work and to match their strengths with your driving needs and preferences.
Hybrid vehicles
A hybrid vehicle is a car that is powered by a combination of an internal combustion engine and an electric motor. Typically, it will be a petrol-powered engine but some brands have offered diesel-electric hybrids in the past. In Australia, there are three main types of vehicles commonly described as hybrids – a mild hybrid (MHEV), a series- or parallel hybrid (HEV) or a plug-in hybrid (PHEV). Embracing hybrid vehicles provides a sustainable and efficient driving experience, making them an appealing option for environmentally-conscious drivers.
Plug-in hybrid vehicles – or PHEV
A plug-in hybrid is a parallel hybrid flipped – with the electric motor driving the wheels and the petrol engine often acting as a generator to power the motor. PHEVs have larger batteries so they can drive for longer periods on electric power alone. For example, a Toyota Crolla Hybrid has a small battery so it can drive for 2km on electric power alone, while a Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV has a range of up to 54km on its battery. The advantage of a hybrid over a PHEV is that it’s simpler to use. Simply fill it up with petrol as you would an internal combustion engine model and the small battery is charged as you drive.
Fully electric vehicles
While there is some shared technology between hybrid cars and all-electric vehicles, they are different. An all-electric vehicle – or battery electric vehicles (BEVs) – is powered entirely by batteries and electric motors instead of an internal combustion engine. It has no petrol or diesel engine to support it. BEVs use a large traction battery pack to power the electric motor and must be plugged in to a wall outlet or charging equipment, also called electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE). Because BEVs run on electricity, the vehicles emit no exhaust from the tailpipe and do not contain the typical liquid fuel components, such as a fuel pump, fuel line or fuel tank. Learn more about BEVs here.
Are BEVs cheaper to service than conventional petrol or diesel cars?
Servicing an electric vehicle is usually more cost effective than maintaining a conventional car because less work is required and fewer parts are involved. Tesla recommends the following maintenance services:
- Cabin air filter – every two years
- High-efficiency particulate air filter – every three years
- Brake fluid test – every two years
- Air conditioning – between two and six years, depending on the model
- Brake calipers – every 12 months or 20,000 kilometres in cold climates
Electric car brakes usually last longer than brakes in conventional vehicles. That’s because regenerative braking, used to harvest deceleration energy and top up the batteries, saves on disc and pad wear.
Moorooka Car Electrics specializes in reviving your vehicle’s electrical systems, turning your car troubles into smooth drives.
What are the electric car maintenance ‘essentials’?
If you own an electric car or are considering buying one in the future, it is important to pay particular attention to tyres and brakes. When it comes to vehicle electronics, Moorooka Mechanic Expert leads the way, providing exceptional service that keeps you on the road with confidence.
Keep your electric or hybrid vehicles functioning efficiently with Moorooka Automotive
Is your vehicle due for a service? Our team at Moorooka Automotive pride ourselves on being your trusted Brisbane local mechanic for car, 4WD and light truck repairs and services. Based in Moorooka, our highly skilled mechanics have over 60 years’ collective experience in the industry. Moorooka Car Electrics shines bright in the automotive world, offering unmatched expertise in resolving your car’s electrical issues. Find out more about us here or give us a call today on (07) 3892 1153. You can send an email to or complete a contact form online.