 
Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs)
Best for: Drivers ready to go fully electric
Battery Electric Vehicles -- also known as all-electric cars -- are powered entirely by an electric motor and rechargeable battery. They produce zero tailpipe emissions and don’t use any gasoline at all. That means fewer maintenance needs, quiet operation and clean energy driving.
Popular BEVs include the Chevy Blazer EV and Equinox EV, luxurious Cadillac EVs like the LYRIQ and OPTIQ, rugged GMC HUMMER EVs in SUV and pickup body styles, and other great options!
Key Benefits:
- 100% electric driving with no fuel stops
- May be eligible for federal and state EV incentives
- Lower lifetime ownership costs
Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs)
Best for: Efficiency-minded drivers who prefer not to plug in
Hybrid Electric Vehicles combine a gasoline engine with an electric motor, but they don’t need to be plugged in. Instead, the battery recharges automatically through regenerative braking and engine power. HEVs optimize fuel efficiency, especially in city driving. This is a great option if you’re not ready to go fully electric but want better gas mileage without changing your routine.
Key Benefits:
- No charging needed
- Better mpg ratings than traditional gas vehicles
- Proven tech with a familiar driving experience
Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs)
Best for: Drivers who want electric range with gas backup
Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles offer the best of both worlds: a battery you can charge for electric-only trips around town, plus a gasoline engine for longer drives. When the battery runs out, the gas engine takes over, so there's no need to stop your journey. PHEVs are ideal for Illinois drivers who want to reduce fuel use but still need flexibility for travel.
Key Benefits:
- Charge at home or at public stations
- Drive on electric power for short commutes
- No range anxiety with a gas backup
Levels of Electric Vehicle Charging
When it comes to keeping your EV powered up, understanding the different levels of electric vehicle charging can help you plan smarter and drive with confidence. Whether you're charging at home in Charleston or using a public station on the go in Paris, here's a quick guide to the three main EV charging levels that are available to you:
Level 1 Charging
Best for: Occasional or overnight home use
Level 1 charging uses a standard 120-volt household outlet and typically adds about 3 to 5 miles of range per hour. It's slow, but a good option if you drive short distances and have plenty of time to recharge.
Level 2 Charging
Best for: Daily home charging or public stations
Level 2 chargers use a 240-volt connection -- similar to something like your clothes dryer -- and offer significantly faster charging, often adding 20 to 30 miles of range per hour. Many EV owners choose to install a Level 2 charger at home for overnight top-ups. You'll also find Level 2 stations throughout Charleston, Paris and nearby areas.
Level 3 Charging (DC Fast Charging)
Best for: Road trips and quick top-ups
DC Fast Charging is the quickest way to charge an EV, delivering 60 to 100+ miles of range in as little as 20 minutes. While not available for all EV models, these stations are ideal for longer trips or when you need a quick boost.
From home convenience to on-the-go speed, there's a charging solution to match your lifestyle. Need help choosing the right setup or want to learn more about nearby public EV chargers? Our team at Diepholz Auto is here to walk you through your options.