EV & Hybrid

WHAT ARE HYBRID & ELECTRIC VEHICLES?

Like any other vehicle, hybrid and electric vehicles require regular maintenance. Hybrid and electric vehicles have revolutionized the automotive industry and have grown in popularity in recent years. Hybrid vehicles have both an internal combustion engine (ICE) and an electric motor, which can work in tandem or independently, while electric vehicles (EVs) operate solely on electric power from batteries. Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) can be plugged in when the battery runs out without relying on the gasoline engine.

The market for hybrid and electric vehicles is becoming competitive, with several high-performing makes and models to choose from.

• Tesla has grown in popularity, as it's considered a pioneer in the electric vehicle market and has sleek, modern designs that stand out on the road. The Tesla Model 3, Model Y, and Model X are some of the company's best-selling vehicles.
• Toyota has developed hybrid versions of its most popular vehicles to keep up with growing consumer demand. These include the Rav4 Hybrid, the Highlander, the Camry Hybrid, and the Corolla Hybrid. They are largely the same as their non-hybrid counterparts, but include an electric motor that works alongside the conventional motor.

Here are some more popular hybrid and electric vehicles on the market:

• Chevrolet Equinox EV
• Chevrolet Bolt EV
• Kia Soul EV
• Kia Niro EV
• Honda CRV Hybrid
• Honda Accord Hybrid
• Hyundai IONIQ Hybrid
• Hyundai Elantra Hybrid
• Hyundai Tucson Hybrid
• Ford Escape Hybrid
• Ford Explorer Hybrid

The shift towards more environmentally friendly transportation options has required rapid progress- as these green alternatives become more common, it is important to understand the key components and unique functionalities that make them different from traditional cars. At NAPA Auto Parts, we have everything you need to keep your hybrid and electric vehicles running safely and efficiently.

KEY COMPONENTS OF HYBRID & ELECTRIC VEHICLES

Hybrid and electric vehicles have two key features that make them more sustainable:

• Electric battery ¿ The power source of your vehicle, composed of high-voltage lithium-ion batteries to power the electric motor.
• Converts electrical energy into mechanical energy to provide instant torque, smooth acceleration, and efficient energy conversion.

Alongside these core parts, your electric car requires additional components that a gasoline engine vehicle does not, including a charger so you can plug your vehicle into power outlets and a power inverter to regulate voltage from the battery pack. By selecting NAPA's high-quality parts, you can improve the longevity and durability of your vehicle and avoid frequent and costly repairs.

There are components of your EV or hybrid vehicle that require similar maintenance to those in regular vehicles and should not be overlooked:

• Brake components
• Cooling systems¿especially for the battery and power inverter
• Tires and wheels
• Interior and exterior lighting
• Climate control

HOW TO KNOW WHEN EVs NEED REPAIR OR MAINTENANCE

While many electric vehicles do not need as much maintenance as conventional vehicles, they are not immune to occasional issues. Due to the complexity of their high-tech elements and the sophisticated integration of components, expert knowledge and diagnostic tools are often required for accurate troubleshooting and repairs. However, being aware of the warning signs of potential issues is crucial to prevent more serious breakdowns. Here are a few indications that your car may need some maintenance:

1. Sudden decrease in driving range ¿ If you are finding that you can no longer drive long distances without charging your electric vehicle, it may be a sign that your battery is degrading, or that the charging system is faulty.
2. Decrease in performance ¿ If you are struggling to accelerate or maintain speed, this may be a sign of a faulty motor.
3. Unusual noises ¿ If your vehicle is making grinding or whining sounds, this may also be a sign of motor damage or other mechanical wear.
4. Illuminated dashboard lights ¿ As with any car, the dashboard lights on an EV serve to indicate potential issues with your vehicle. Don't ignore them, as they may be signalling serious damage.

Our experts at NAPA Auto Parts will be able to guide you in selecting the best parts for your vehicle's individual requirements. For more in-depth advice, speak to our qualified mechanics at your nearest NexDrive service centre. They offer specialized consultations and repairs for everything electric. You can count on them to offer the best service and quality parts to repair your vehicle.