Glossary of Common Electric Vehicle (EV) Terms

Battery Capacity (kWh)

Measured in kilowatt-hours, this indicates how much electric energy the car’s battery can store. A higher kWh usually means a longer driving range. For example, a 40 kWh battery can store twice as much energy as a 20 kWh one.

Charging Point / Charge Station

A location where you plug in your EV to recharge the battery. These can be at home, workplaces, or public locations like supermarkets and motorway services.

Find EV Charging stations (ZAP-MAP)

DC Fast Charging

A method of charging that delivers direct current (DC) at high power, allowing rapid recharge times. Some fast chargers can charge an EV battery from 20% to 80% in about 30 minutes.

Range

The maximum distance an EV can travel on a full battery charge. Range varies based on battery size, driving conditions, and driving style.

Regenerative Braking

A technology that recovers energy when you brake, converting it back into battery power to extend driving range.

State of Health (SoH)

A measure of battery condition expressed as a percentage. 100% means the battery is as good as new; lower percentages indicate capacity loss due to wear.

Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)

The full cost of owning a vehicle over a period, including purchase price, fuel or electricity, maintenance, insurance, taxes, and depreciation.

Over-the-Air (OTA) Updates

Software updates delivered wirelessly to the car, improving features, safety, or performance without visiting a dealer.

Warranty

A guarantee provided by the manufacturer covering certain repairs or replacements within a time or mileage limit. For EVs, battery warranties often last 8 years or 100,000 miles.

Home Charger

An electric socket or charging unit installed at your residence for convenient overnight charging of your EV.

Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ)

A regulated area in some UK cities where vehicles must meet strict emissions standards or pay a daily charge to drive inside the zone.