Portslade

Electric Car Repairs and Car Servicing in Portslade | Understanding Electrical Vehicle Types

Electric vehicles are reshaping the way we think about driving and maintenance – from choosing the right MOT garage to understanding how car servicing and breakdown recovery work for modern vehicles. Based in Lancing, we serve customers in Portslade and the surrounding areas, providing MOT testing and vehicle diagnostics for both EVs and traditional models.

Whether you hire our auto electricians for a car or light commercial vehicle MOT, knowing what to expect can save time and money. From electric car repairs to comprehensive electric car servicing, this guide will help you understand the main types of electric vehicles.

Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle

Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) combine a traditional engine with a battery that can be charged from the mains. They are perfect for drivers who want reduced emissions without range anxiety.

Key features:

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    Runs on battery for short trips and petrol/diesel for longer drives

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    Lower fuel consumption than conventional cars

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    Often exempt from low-emission zone charges

Maintenance notes:

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    PHEVs still need regular car servicing with attention to both engine and electric systems

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    Vehicle diagnostics become vital to ensure both power sources are working efficiently

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    Electric car repairs may be less frequent but require specialist training

Drivers should choose an MOT garage familiar with both combustion and electric systems to ensure a smooth car or light commercial vehicle MOT test experience.

Hybrid Electric Vehicle

Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) do not plug in; they recharge their batteries through regenerative braking and engine power.

Key features:

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    Improved fuel economy over standard vehicles

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    No charging infrastructure needed

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    Great for urban and highway use

Maintenance notes:

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    Regular vehicle diagnostics help detect issues early

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    Skilled auto electricians can help with the complex electrical components

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    EV servicing will include checks on the hybrid battery

HEVs in Portslade and beyond still require routine car servicing and an MOT test just like any other vehicle.

Battery Electric Vehicle

Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) run entirely on electricity and produce zero tailpipe emissions.

Key features:

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    Zero fuel cost at the pump

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    Smooth, quiet operation

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    Often eligible for government incentives

Maintenance notes:

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    Electric car repairs focus on battery and electric drive systems

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    Breakdown recovery for BEVs may differ from conventional vehicles

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    Specialised auto electricians ensure high-voltage systems are safe

Routine electric car servicing and accurate vehicle diagnostics are essential to keep BEVs in top condition.

Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle

Fuel Cell EVs (FCEVs) use hydrogen to generate electricity onboard and emit only water vapour.

Key features:

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    Fast refuelling compared to BEVs

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    Limited but growing fuel infrastructure

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    Excellent range potential

Service teams must understand both fuel cell stacks and electric systems. Regular vehicle diagnostics help detect issues early.

Extended Range Electric Vehicle

Extended-Range Electric Vehicles (E-REVs) are primarily electric but include a small generator to recharge the battery when needed.

Key features:

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    Extended electric range without plug-in anxiety

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    Ideal for mixed-use drivers

Maintenance includes servicing the car's electric and generator components. Booking a car or light commercial vehicle MOT test or electric car servicing with our MOT garage minimises the need for breakdown recovery or electric car repairs.

Understanding these types helps you choose the right vehicle and care routine, including the right auto electricians for vehicle diagnostics, so your transition to electric driving is as smooth as possible. Based in Lancing, we serve customers in Portslade and the surrounding areas.

Steve’s Autos Lancing Ltd – For All Your Motoring Needs
Call 01903 754 216 to book electric car servicing and repairs at our MOT garage in Lancing. We serve Portslade and the surrounding areas.
or contact us on our quick-send form