EV Dictionary: Basics

Battery Degradation

How EV batteries lose capacity over time and what influences the rate.

Battery-Electric Vehicle (BEV)

A vehicle powered only by electricity stored in a rechargeable traction battery.

DC Fast Charging

Charging that supplies controlled direct current to an EV battery.

EPA Range

The U.S. electric-range estimate produced under EPA test and label procedures.

Euro NCAP

A European consumer programme that tests and rates vehicle safety.

Frunk

A front storage compartment made possible by a vehicle's component packaging.

Kilowatt-hour (kWh)

The energy unit used for EV battery capacity and electricity consumption.

Over-the-Air (OTA) Update

A vehicle software or firmware update delivered through a wireless connection.

Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV)

A vehicle combining plug-in electric driving with an internal-combustion engine.

Range Anxiety

Concern about having enough energy and charging access to complete an EV journey.

WLTP

The regulated laboratory procedure used for electric range and energy consumption.