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A new generation of electric vehicles (EVs)—including plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs)—will help our country enter an era of clean transportation and greater energy independence.
PEVs are plugged in to the existing electricity system and use an electrical outlet—not gasoline—to recharge the car batteries. It is expected that when a PEV is charged, the first 20 to 40 miles of driving will be all electric or “primary electric,” as the gas engine may need to “kick in” at certain times. Owners can recharge their batteries overnight, using lower-cost, off-peak electricity. Under this scenario, the cost of an equivalent electric gallon of gasoline could be less than $1.00.
Battery-powered electric vehicles produce just one-third of the GHGs emitted by gasoline-fueled vehicles.1 EVs and PEVs also help to reduce other emissions, such as nitrogen oxides and sulfur dioxide.
Challenges
While there are several types of EVs on the road today, many challenges must be overcome to realize the full potential of this technology. Significant funding is needed for the development and deployment of PHEV technology. For example, high battery costs remain a significant hurdle for bringing PEVs to market.
Strengthening our electricity infrastructure with smart grid technology is a key component for large-scale commercialization of PEVs. Smart grid technology will help PEV owners choose the best time of day to charge their vehicles. This will help alleviate stress on the electric grid and optimize the benefits of PEVs.
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, passed by Congress in February 2009, contains $2.4 billion for the development of electric vehicles. The U.S. Department of Energy recently announced the funding will be used to promote the manufacturing of advanced battery and related components, and for transportation electrification demonstration and deployment projects. In addition, a tax credit of up to $7,500 will be available for individuals who purchase PEVs.
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