What does a range-extended electric vehicle mean?

[JesseMarie]

Range-extended electric vehicles refer to vehicles directly driven by electric motors, where the engine does not participate in driving and lacks mechanical devices such as clutches or transmissions. When the battery power is insufficient, the engine is used to generate electricity to charge the battery, operating within the optimal speed range, and the battery then provides energy to the motor that directly drives the vehicle. Advantages of range-extended electric vehicles: 1. They can operate in pure electric mode, requiring a smaller battery capacity, eliminating the risk of running out of power and breaking down; 2. The battery charging power is low, eliminating the need for large-scale charging infrastructure; 3. They can operate in plug-in hybrid mode, further improving fuel efficiency beyond traditional hybrid vehicles; 4. They have a simple structure, direct motor drive, and are easy to maintain and industrialize.

[MaciLynn]

I previously drove an extended-range electric vehicle, and it felt like a pure electric car with a small engine added as a backup generator. The battery powers the electric motor to propel the vehicle, and when the battery is nearly depleted, the small engine automatically starts to generate electricity, either recharging the battery or directly supplying power to the motor to keep it running. However, the engine never directly drives the wheels. This design provides an exceptionally long range, eliminating range anxiety on long trips and making it more practical than a pure electric vehicle. On one trip I took, the battery lasted only about 200 kilometers, but after the engine kicked in, it extended the range by another 300+ kilometers, with the ability to refuel with gasoline. The downsides are some noise during operation and slightly more complicated maintenance. However, the savings on electricity and reduced fuel costs (about half) make it quite cost-effective overall. Importantly, it reduces carbon emissions without relying on engine propulsion like plug-in hybrids, truly enabling a zero-emission urban lifestyle with low anxiety for long-distance travel.

[JaydenMarie]

As an ordinary person who drives frequently, a range-extended electric vehicle is essentially an electric car equipped with a small engine as a backup for the battery. When the battery runs low, the engine generates electricity to support driving but doesn't directly propel the car. I find it more reliable than a pure electric vehicle because it won't leave you stranded when charging stations are scarce, and it balances electricity and fuel consumption, reducing dependence on fossil fuels. From an environmental perspective, it offers zero emissions for daily electric use and minimal emissions for long trips, with total energy consumption about 30% lower than traditional fuel cars. In practical use, it's hassle-free, maintenance isn't complicated, and the key advantage is cost savings—electricity is cheap and fuel costs are manageable, making it more practical in areas with insufficient charging infrastructure. Compared to pure electric vehicles, it doubles the driving range, significantly reducing range anxiety and enhancing comfort.

[RicardoRose]

Simply put, a range-extended electric vehicle is like an electric car with a built-in generator. The battery powers the motor to drive the car, and when the battery runs low, the engine generates electricity to supplement power or recharge. It offers better range than pure electric vehicles—during my test drive, I drove 500 kilometers continuously without charging. Its working principle is unique: the engine only generates electricity and does not directly drive the wheels. Key advantages include reduced range anxiety and the convenience of using gasoline when charging is insufficient. Overall, it's quiet, though occasional engine noise can be heard. Highly efficient and economical, it’s ideal for busy schedules.

[DanielAnn]

From a cost-saving perspective, a range-extended electric vehicle is essentially a regular electric car equipped with an engine-generator as a backup when the battery is depleted. I've calculated that electricity costs are 70% lower than fuel costs. When the battery level is low, the engine generates electricity for extended range, cutting fuel expenses by half, resulting in an overall 50% reduction in fuel costs compared to conventional gasoline vehicles. Additional benefits include reduced carbon emissions, lower-than-expected maintenance costs, and simple operation without extra burdens. With a range exceeding 400 kilometers, it offers greater peace of mind for long-distance travel and reduces charging frequency. The downside is a slight increase in weight, which may affect performance, but daily driving remains smooth, efficient, and highly practical.