The global automotive industry has undergone an unprecedented transformation in recent years, with traditional gasoline vehicles gradually giving way to diverse new energy technologies.
This article explores six major powertrain systems-gasoline vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles (HEV), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV), extended-range electric vehicles (EREV), battery electric vehicles (BEV), and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCEV)-analyzing their technical features, strengths, and limitations to help readers understand industry trends.
1.Gasoline Vehicles: The Legacy of Combustion Engines
Gasoline Vehicles
Key Features
Solely powered by internal combustion engines (ICE), refueled exclusively via gasoline.
Advantages
Mature technology, rapid refueling (3-5 minutes), stable range.
Drawbacks
Low fuel efficiency (only 20%-30% energy converted to power), heavy pollution, vulnerability to oil price fluctuations.
- Ideal Use Cases: Regions lacking charging infrastructure or users prioritizing long-distance travel efficiency.
2. Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV): Bridging Efficiency and Convenience
Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV)
Key Features
Combines ICE and electric motor, no external charging required.
Advantages
30%-40% lower fuel consumption than gasoline vehicles, extended range.
Drawbacks
Higher upfront cost, increased vehicle weight, complex maintenance..
- Ideal Use Cases: Eco-conscious drivers seeking fuel savings without altering refueling habits; suitable for urban commutes.
3. Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV): Dual-Power Flexibility
Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV)
Key Features
Larger battery capacity, supports external charging (50-100 km pure electric range), switches to hybrid mode when battery depletes.
Advantages
Balances ICE range with BEV eco-friendliness, qualifies for green incentives (e.g., subsidies, tax breaks).
Drawbacks
Higher weight increases energy consumption, charging dependency, premium pricing.
- Ideal Use Cases: Drivers with access to charging stations, ideal for short electric commutes and occasional long trips.
4. Extended-Range Electric Vehicles (EREV): Electric Driving with a Safety Net
Extended-Range Electric Vehicles (EREV)
Key Features
Electric motor drives wheels; ICE acts solely as a generator for battery charging. Supports both refueling and charging.
Advantages
Extended range (over 1,000 km), near-BEV driving experience.
Drawbacks
High energy consumption at highway speeds, limited engine power, charging dependency.
- Ideal Use Cases: Range-anxious drivers seeking electric performance; suitable for urban and intercity travel.
5. Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV): Zero-Emission Pioneers
Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV)
Key Features
Fully electric drivetrain, relies entirely on charging.
Advantages
Zero emissions, quiet operation, energy costs 1/3 to 1/2 of gasoline vehicles.
Drawbacks
Range anxiety (300-600 km average), battery degradation (high replacement costs), sparse charging networks.
- Ideal Use Cases: Areas with robust charging infrastructure, eco-conscious users, fixed-route commuters.
6. Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles (FCEV): The Future Energy Contender
Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles (FCEV)
Key Features
Electric motor powered by hydrogen fuel cells, refueled via hydrogen stations.
Advantages
Zero emissions (water vapor only), rapid refueling (3-5 minutes), high energy density.
Drawbacks
Scarce hydrogen stations, high production/storage costs, unresolved safety concerns.
- Ideal Use Cases: Currently limited to pilot regions; potential for commercial fleets or policy-supported areas.
Comparison & Future Outlook
- Eco-Friendliness: FCEV ≈ BEV > EREV > PHEV > HEV > Gasoline.
- Convenience: Gasoline > FCEV > HEV > PHEV > EREV > BEV (infrastructure-dependent).
- Cost: Gasoline < HEV < PHEV < EREV < BEV < FCEV.