The extended range EV (EREV) is becoming a trend for drivers who want to go fully electric, but are concerned about range
EREVs have a full-size electric battery and one or multiple powerful electric motors. It also has a small gasoline generator that’s built exclusively to charge the battery
EREVs help eliminate range anxiety while serving as a fallback in emergencies
Many experts predict that true EVs won’t get much wider adoption until there are a few breakthroughs in EV battery technology that give them a longer range and faster charging speed
The longer range of EREVs means they won’t necessarily need to be charged as often, but they will need to be charged and refuelled using regular gasoline, adding extra inconvenience
EREVs still need to be charged, which is where the biggest issue with widespread adoption of any kind of electric vehicle comes into play
EREVs could still be a stopgap toward full electrification, but a stopgap that makes sense longer term, for certain drivers
EREVs are not widely available just yet, with only two models available and the Ram 1500 Ramcharger scheduled for release in the next few months
Until EVs have longer ranges and can charge faster, there are plenty of people who need a stopgap and who won’t be willing to switch to an all-electric vehicle
Drivers who can charge at home but aren’t quite willing to jump to a full EV may find that the EREV is the perfect alternative