Summary
- Extended-Range EVs (EREVs) use a gas-powered generator to top up the battery
- EREVs are becoming more popular as a solution to EV hesitancy for larger vehicles
- Ram and Volkswagen are introducing EREVs in their lineup
- EREVs are already successful in China
- Pros and cons of EREVs are discussed on the Plugged-In Podcast episode
Article
Extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs) are emerging as a solution to address charging anxiety and hesitancy towards electric vehicles (EVs). These vehicles feature a small gasoline engine that acts as a generator to top up the battery, allowing for longer range and increased versatility. EREVs, such as the Chevy Volt and range-extended BMW i3, are gaining traction as automakers aim to appeal to buyers of larger SUVs and trucks. The concept of EREVs is seeing a resurgence in the industry, with companies like Ram and Volkswagen introducing EREV models to meet consumer needs.
Ram is set to launch the Ramcharger as the first EREV pickup truck in the U.S. market, while Volkswagen’s new EV brand, Scout, has reported high demand for its ‘Harvester’ range-extender option. China has already embraced EREVs, reflecting the country’s leadership in electrifying transportation. The Plugged-In Podcast delves into the benefits and drawbacks of EREVs, discussing their potential as the future of larger vehicles or as a temporary solution. The hosts also explore the impact of President Trump’s freeze on the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program, which allocated $5 billion for EV chargers.
Listeners are encouraged to share their thoughts on EREVs and their role in the automotive industry. The podcast is available on various platforms, including the InsideEVs YouTube channel, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, and Audioboom. New episodes are released every Friday, providing insights and discussions on electric vehicles and related topics. The hosts invite subscribers to leave reviews and recommend the podcast to friends who may be hesitant about EVs, offering an engaging and informative resource for those interested in the future of transportation.
EREVs offer a promising solution to address concerns related to EV range and charging infrastructure, particularly for buyers of larger vehicles. By integrating a gasoline generator to extend the battery range, EREVs provide added flexibility and convenience for drivers needing longer distances. With automakers like Ram and Volkswagen investing in EREV models, there is growing interest and demand for these vehicles in the market. China’s embrace of EREVs underscores the global shift towards electrification in transportation and the potential for EREVs to play a significant role in this transition.
As the automotive industry continues to evolve towards electrification, EREVs represent a pragmatic approach to combining electric power with the convenience of a gasoline generator. The discussion on EREVs in the Plugged-In Podcast sheds light on the advantages and challenges of this technology, sparking debate on whether EREVs are a long-term solution or a temporary bridge to fully electric vehicles. The podcast serves as a platform for engaging with audiences on the future of transportation, encouraging listeners to share their insights and perspectives on EREVs and the evolving landscape of electric vehicles.
Overall, EREVs offer a unique blend of electric and gasoline power that addresses concerns about EV range, charging infrastructure, and consumer hesitancy. With advancements in technology and growing interest from automakers, EREVs are poised to become a viable option for drivers seeking a balance between electrification and practicality. The Plugged-In Podcast provides a forum for exploring the potential of EREVs and other emerging trends in the electric vehicle market, keeping audiences informed and engaged with the latest developments in transportation innovation.
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