What is a New Energy Vehicle?
The next generation of ultra-efficient plug-in hybrid driving
Over the last few years, electric cars have become more popular with more of them appearing on our roads. Typically, these are referred to as EVs. But there is another term that you may not be familiar with – New Energy Vehicle, or NEV.
The term ‘New Energy Vehicle’ is used to describe all types of electric vehicles with a plug, from battery-powered fully electric vehicles to plug-in hybrid cars.
BYD is leading the charge in global NEV sales, and is currently the world’s #1 New Energy Vehicle manufacturer.
Types of New Energy Vehicles
NEV is an all-encompassing term used to describe vehicles that are powered by alternatives to fossil fuels - like electricity. Some of the most common types of NEVs include Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV) and Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV).
Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV)
Battery electric vehicles are 100% electric. They are powered solely by a battery that powers anywhere from one to four electric motors to make the car move. This battery is charged externally by plugging the vehicle into a charger at your home, work, or at a public charging station. Because it doesn’t have an engine, it doesn’t release exhaust emissions into the atmosphere.
Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV)
A plug-in hybrid is another type of NEV. PHEVs combine an internal combustion engine with an electric motor (or two, or three, depending on the model) and can be charged externally in the same manner as a BEV – at home, work or at a public charging station – to keep running costs low and reduce dependency on petrol.
A BYD DM Super Hybrid PHEV will prioritise running on electricity until it the battery reaches its minimum state of charge (SoC). This is when the internal combustion engine will kick in to power the battery, electric motor(s), and even power the wheels directly. This type of NEV is a good option for those who drive longer distances to reduce range anxiety.
Read more about BYD’s DM Super Hybrid Technology
The Benefits of a New Energy Vehicle
Whether you’re ready to take the plunge with a 100% electric car or prefer the range of a plug-in hybrid, there are plenty of environmental and economic benefits to switching to an NEV.
Reduce Environmental Impact
NEVs are an effective way to reduce your CO₂ emissions for daily commuting. NEVs produce less greenhouse gases and less air pollution than fuel-powered vehicles, with 100%-electric BEVs producing zero tail-pipe emissions and PHEVs able to drastically reduce emissions versus internal combustion-powered cars. Charging via green energy further reduces your environmental impact.
Improved Energy Efficiency
NEVs are incredibly energy efficient. Where internal combustion engines waste a lot of energy in heat and mechanical power losses, NEVs transfer 85%-90% of their energy into forward momentum. This is due to greater mechanical simplicity.
Advanced Technology
Many NEVs, including BYD cars, feature some of the most advanced technology to make driving more comfortable and convenient. This includes the latest driver assistance tech, vehicle-to-load (V2L) to power your accessories, internet connections allowing for remote app control, and over-the-air (OTA) updates to keep improving your car over time.
The Latest Safety
The myth that electric cars with large batteries are unsafe is just that: a myth. There are multiple key technologies that play a crucial role in making every BYD a safer car. This includes BYD's cutting-edge and ultra-safe Blade Battery that is fitted to every BYD NEV. The Blade Battery has been put through the world's most rigorous and destructive stress tests in the industry, including the Nail Penetration Test, and passed with flying colours.
TL;DR? Fuel Power versus New Energy Vehicles.
The primary difference between New Energy Vehicles and fuel-powered cars with internal combustion engines is the way they are fuelled - NEVs on electricity and ICE cars on petrol or diesel. But there are other factors to consider that set these vehicles apart from each other.
Extra energy efficiency
NEVs are more energy efficient than fuel-powered vehicles. New Energy Vehicles get you further by using less energy and producing less emissions.
Quiet driving experience
NEVs are quieter when on the road. They make less noise for a smooth drive compared to cars that rely primarily on internal combustion engines.
Exhilarating, Responsive and Dynamic
NEVs offer instant torque, making them fun to drive!
Lower running costs
One of the main advantages of NEVs is being able to top-up at home. Not only do you not need to visit a petrol station, but you can save money too. Many energy providers offer customers low-cost energy for charging at off-peak times.
