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Read articleAutomotive glossary
Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV)
A vehicle propelled by electric motors powered by a battery that can be recharged from an external source.
Reviewed 05.10.2026 · Version 2 · Scope: General
How to interpret it
Traction energy is stored in the battery. The term describes the vehicle architecture; it does not specify a particular range, charging power, or connector compatibility.
Example
In a hypothetical comparison, a BEV and a plug-in hybrid may both have a charging port, but the BEV does not have a combustion engine for propulsion.
Why it matters to you
Helps identify the energy sources a vehicle uses and which consumption and charging details are worth checking.
Common points of confusion
Do not confuse a BEV with any vehicle that has a battery. The auxiliary battery in a combustion-engine car does not make it electric.
Documentary sources
Funcionamiento de un vehículo eléctrico U.S. Department of Energy · 2026-10-05
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