EV Cars Vs HEV Cars | What Works In India?

India’s electrification race has begun with all manufacturers working on their EV candidates. India is still not ready for EVs and needs time to develop a charging infrastructure at least. While we are seeing new EVs being launched, we also witnessed an HEV launched recently. But what suits India better?

• What are EVs?
  

  

  EVs are cars that are run by electric motors with an electric battery on board. Their specific details depend on the total weight and the battery’s capacity. As there is no engine and zero-emission, it also does not consist of any fuel linkages or exhaust systems, which reduces the mechanical moving parts.

  Also Read: The Tata Nexon EV MAX Is A Game Changer – Here’s Why!

  They have to be recharged and have a driving range on a single full charge, along with features like regenerative braking adding on to it. EVs are significantly quieter, and as they are zero-emission vehicles, they are suitable for the environment too. They have a higher buying price, but the ownership cost is low in the long run.

  But the EV infrastructure in India is still in the development phase, and we dont have any EVs with an exceptional driving range as of now. This contributes to issues like range anxiety, and the charging time is also at least 3-4 hours unless you have a fast charger.

• What are HEVs?
  

  

  HEV: Hybrid Electrical Vehicle. These cars have two power sources; one petrol and the other is electric. Both sources work together to power and rotate the wheels, which leads to lesser fuel consumption, thereby enhancing the overall fuel efficiency. They offer better fuel efficiency and power than conventional vehicles.

  Also Read: Honda City e:HEV Hybrid Officially Launched At ₹19.50 Lakh

  The battery pack of HEV cars is more minor than EVs, and they are better suited for long drives as they might save you a gas station halt. Whenever the car is cruising or braking, excess power is utilized to charge the batteries on board and enhance the range further.

• Difference between EVs & HEVs?
  

  Specifications	Hybrid Cars	Electric Cars
  Power/Fuel Source	Electricity and Fossil Fuel (Petrol and Diesel)	Electricity Through Battery Pack (DC)
  Engine	Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) and Electric Motor(s)	Electric Motor(s)
  Fuel Efficiency	Combination of ICE and Battery Range	Depend on Battery Range
  Emission Level	Higher Compared to Electric Cars	Lower Compared to ICE and Hybrid Cars
  Price Range	Similar to Conventional ICE Cars	High
  Charging	Not Needed	Needed

  Source: Acko

• What suits India better?
  

  

  As we already stated, the charging infrastructure is still under development, with stations increasing throughout the country. Every company invests in this sector, and even the government promotes it with its respective subsidiary schemes. But despite all that, things are going to take time to make India EV ready.

  Also Read: Types Of EV Chargers And Their Charging Speeds – Explained!

  Coming to the question, we popped up. While HEVs are better if you want to take your car for long drives, and if you are a road trip enthusiast, HEVs are clearly the choice for you. If you have a short commute on a regular basis, such as in the office, you are better suited with an EV. Its range will be sufficient, and you can also charge it at home or in the office if you have charging sockets.

  As they will still have the IC engine feel along with lower emissions and enhanced range. And considering the current scenario in India, we would recommend HEVs to avoid battling issues such as range anxiety. Which one would you pick?