The Pros and Cons of Different Types of Alternative Powered Vehicles
On the road, you might have seen a few different types of alternative-powered vehicles (or APVs). There are pros and cons to each type of vehicle, but which one is right for you? Independent living is something that many people desire after retirement. It gives you the ability to age in place as well as maintain your independence. Many aging adults want to continue living in their own homes for as long as possible, but that may come with its own challenges. For example, you may need to make frequent trips to the grocery store or doctor’s office. If so, check out these different types of APVs and see if any would work for you.
What is an APV?
An APV is any vehicle that runs on an alternative fuel source other than gasoline. Most APVs run on electricity from batteries or use hydrogen fuel cells as a source of power. If you want to get an idea of how much an APV will cost, you can use this calculator. You can also use this calculator to see what types of government assistance are available for purchasing an alternative-powered vehicle.
Electric Powered Vehicles
One of the most common types of APVs is the electric vehicle (EV). EVs generally run on batteries that are charged by plugging them into a power source. Electric vehicles do not produce pollution. However, they do require a lot of energy to produce and can be more expensive to purchase than a regular car. If you live in a cold climate, you may also have to be concerned about the batteries freezing. If so, it is best to store your car inside. If you live in an area with frequent power outages, you should also consider purchasing a gasoline-powered APV. This way, you won’t be left without a way to get around when the power goes out. Electrical outages can also affect charging times for your car. If you have a long commute to work, you will want to plan for extra charging time during an outage.
Hybrid Electric Vehicles
A hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) is similar to an EV but uses a combination of battery power and gasoline. Hybrid vehicles are very common, and you can find them in all sorts of types of vehicles. Hybrid vehicles typically get better gas mileage than gas-powered cars. However, they can also be more expensive to buy. Hybrid vehicles are also more complicated to repair. If you have a hybrid car, you may want to consider hiring a mechanic who specializes in hybrid vehicles. Hybrid vehicles are best for people who primarily drive short distances. If you drive long distances, you will likely run out of battery power and have to rely on gasoline. If you live in a cold climate, you may have to have your hybrid car plugged in frequently. Hybrids can also be great for people who live in an area with frequent power outages. Hybrid vehicles are typically equipped with batteries that store power from the grid.
Fuel Cell Vehicles (FCVs)
A fuel cell vehicle (FCV) runs on hydrogen stored in tanks. To generate the electricity needed to power the vehicle, hydrogen is combined with oxygen in a fuel cell. Fuel cell vehicles are the most expensive type of APV to purchase. However, they are also the most pollution-free. Fuel cell vehicles produce only water vapor as exhaust. Frequent fueling is one of the biggest issues that people have with fuel cell vehicles. Most FCVs require a fueling station to be nearby. And, fueling can take several minutes per tank. If you have to make a long trip, you may have to plan for extra time to stop for hydrogen. Hybrid vehicles are a more convenient option for those who occasionally need to travel long distances.
Regenerative Braking Sedan
A regenerative braking sedan (RBS) is a type of APV that uses hybrid technology. An RBS is a type of plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHV). PHVs can use any type of power source, including electricity, hydrogen or natural gas. RBSs are very similar to hybrids. They also have an onboard battery that can be charged using electricity. However, the battery can also be charged when the car brakes. The braking system is designed to convert some of the vehicle’s kinetic energy into electricity. The electricity is then used to charge the onboard batteries. RBSs are particularly useful for people who live in areas with frequent power outages. However, they can only be found on a few different types of vehicles.
Summary
When deciding what type of alternative-powered vehicle is right for you, think about where you live, how often you drive, and your budget. If you live in an area with frequent power outages, you will want to consider an APV with a backup power source. If you primarily drive short distances, a hybrid vehicle may be the best option for you. If you drive long distances, a fuel cell vehicle may be better. Finally, if you live in a cold climate, a regenerative braking sedan may be perfect for you.
