150 Interesting Facts About Electric Vehicles

Last updated on July 16th, 2023

81. The Rivian R1T, an electric pickup truck, includes a built-in “Gear Tunnel” that spans the vehicle’s width between the cab and the truck bed, providing additional storage space for outdoor gear.[81]

82. The Fisker Ocean, an electric SUV, features a vegan interior made from recycled materials, such as recycled fishing nets and plastic bottles, promoting sustainability and environmental consciousness.[82]

83. The SoundRacer is a device that simulates engine sounds in electric vehicles, allowing drivers to choose from various engine sound profiles, mimicking the roar of a V8 engine or the purr of a sports car.[83]

84. The Nobe 100 is a retro-styled electric car designed with three wheels, combining classic aesthetics with modern electric drivetrain technology and offering a unique driving experience.[84]

85. The Envision Solar EV ARC is a solar-powered electric vehicle charging station that is completely off-grid, self-sustaining, and does not require any external power source or construction work.[85]

The Arsenale Ehang Drone Taxi Air Transport Auto Pilot Flying Vehicle
The Arsenale Ehang Drone Taxi Air Transport Auto Pilot Flying Vehicle. Photo © Vyychan

86. The Ehang 184 is an autonomous, electric-powered passenger drone designed for urban air mobility. It can transport a single passenger for short distances, showcasing the potential of electric aerial transportation.[86]

87. The Genovation GXE is an electric sports car based on the Chevrolet Corvette. It holds the world record for the fastest street-legal electric vehicle, reaching a top speed of 211.8 mph (340.85 km/h).[87]

88. The Vectrix VX-1 is an electric maxi-scooter that incorporates a reverse gear, allowing for easy maneuvering and parking in tight spaces.[88]

89. Electric vehicle batteries are incredibly durable. Some manufacturers offer warranties of eight years or more on their battery packs, showcasing their longevity and reliability.[89]

90. The Tesla Model S, Model X, and Model 3 electric vehicles utilize a unique cooling system called a “battery coolant loop” to maintain an optimal temperature in the battery pack, enhancing performance and longevity.[90]

91. Electric vehicles can be equipped with “vehicle-to-vehicle” (V2V) communication technology, allowing them to communicate with each other to enhance safety, traffic flow, and efficiency on the road.[91]

92. Many electric vehicles offer “smart charging” features that allow owners to schedule charging during off-peak hours when electricity rates are lower, saving money and reducing strain on the grid.[92]

93. Electric vehicles can be programmed to take advantage of renewable energy availability. For example, some EV owners use software or home automation systems to charge their vehicles when rooftop solar panels produce excess energy.[93]

94. Electric vehicle manufacturers like Tesla have established their own charging networks, enabling seamless long-distance travel and reducing “range anxiety” for EV owners.[94]

95. The battery management system (BMS) in electric vehicles continuously monitors and optimizes the battery pack’s performance, ensuring balanced charging, temperature regulation, and overall safety.[95]

96. The Nikola Badger, an electric pickup truck, is unique because it can run on either hydrogen fuel cells or battery power, providing flexibility in energy sources for long-range travel.[96]

Two electric motorcycles parked on the street.
Two electric motorcycles parked on the street. Facts about EVs. Photo © Silvia RodrÍguez

97. The electric motorcycle “Energica EGO,” produced by Energica Motor Company, is the first electric motorcycle to be used as a racing bike in the FIM Enel MotoE World Cup.[101]

98. Electric scooters, such as the Vespa Elettrica, offer a si`lent and emission-free mode of transportation, ideal for urban areas with noise and air pollution concerns.[102]

99. The first electric car charging station in the United States, named the “Electric Vehicle Charging Station,” was installed in 1993 in San Diego, California, marking a significant milestone in electric vehicle infrastructure.[103]

100. Electric vehicle charging stations can come in unique designs. For example, the “Etree” charging station, developed in Israel, resembles a tree and provides shade, Wi-Fi, and seating while charging vehicles.[104]

101. The Chevrolet Volt, introduced in 2010, was a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle that introduced the concept of an “extended-range electric vehicle.” It has both an electric motor and a gasoline engine that can generate electricity to power the vehicle after the battery is depleted.[105]

102. In Japan, the Nissan LEAF is used as a backup power source during emergencies. The LEAF-to-Home system allows owners to power their homes using the energy stored in their vehicle’s battery during power outages.[106]

103. The “World Solar Challenge” is a biennial solar-powered car race held in Australia, challenging teams to design and build solar vehicles capable of traveling across the continent.[107]

104. Electric cargo bikes like the Urban Arrow are increasingly used for last-mile delivery services, reducing emissions and congestion in urban areas.[108]

105. The Ather 450X, an electric scooter from India, features over-the-air (OTA) updates, allowing the scooter’s software to be updated remotely, improving performance, and adding new features.[109]

106. The Mitsubishi i-MiEV, introduced in 2009, was the first mass-produced electric car available for purchase worldwide. It paved the way for other electric vehicles to enter the market.[110]

107. In Norway, electric vehicles enjoy a significant market share, accounting for over 50% of new car sales. This success is attributed to strong government incentives, such as tax exemptions, toll discounts, and free parking for EV owners.[111]

Rimac C Two electric. Electric cars fact file
Rimac C Two electric hyper car. Facts about electric cars. Photo © VanderWolfImages

108. The Rimac C_Two, an electric hypercar, features facial recognition technology that can automatically adjust seat positions, climate control settings, and other personalized preferences based on the driver’s face.[117]

109. The eHang 184 completed its first manned flight in Dubai, showcasing the potential for electric-powered aerial transportation in the future.[112]

110. The Gogoro Smartscooter, an electric scooter from Taiwan, uses a unique battery-swapping system. Instead of charging, riders can change depleted batteries for fully charged ones at Gogoro battery stations, reducing charging time and providing convenience.[113]

111. The Rinspeed Oasis, a concept electric vehicle, features a built-in garden space called the “Garden Plot” on its dashboard. It allows occupants to grow small plants and herbs while moving, merging urban mobility with greenery.[114]

112. The Nissan e-NV200, an electric van, can be transformed into a fully functioning office space with a desk, chairs, and even a coffee maker, providing a mobile workspace solution.[115]

113. The Tesla Model 3 was the best-selling electric car globally in 2020, outselling all other electric vehicle models and even surpassing some popular gas-powered sedans.[116]

114. The RadRover, an electric fat tire bike, is designed for all-terrain adventures and can tackle various terrains, including snow, sand, and rocky trails, providing a unique off-road experience.[118]

115. The Aptera Paradigm, an electric vehicle under development, incorporates advanced self-healing nanocomposite materials that can repair minor scratches and dings independently, reducing the need for cosmetic repairs.[119]

116. The Audi e-tron GT, an electric sports car, features a unique sound system that generates a synthesized sound to enhance the driving experience, creating a futuristic soundtrack to match its performance.[120]

117. The Citroën Ami, an electric microcar, is available for purchase in France without a driver’s license, making it accessible to a wide range of users for short urban trips.[121]

BAOJUN e300 mini electric car
BAOJUN e300 mini electric car on display. Photo © Valleysnow

118. The Baojun E300, an electric city car in China, has a built-in karaoke system, allowing passengers to sing along while on the move, adding a fun and entertaining element to the driving experience.[122]

119. The Nissan LEAF, an all-electric car, has a “B mode” feature that enhances regenerative braking, allowing the vehicle to decelerate more aggressively when the driver releases the accelerator pedal, further extending its range.[97]

120. The Lucid Air, a luxury electric sedan, features an optional “DreamDrive” technology that allows passengers to recline their seats fully and enjoy a personalized cinema experience during autonomous driving.[98]

121. The CityQ is an electric bike/car hybrid designed with enclosed seating and a roof, providing a weather-protected and eco-friendly alternative for urban commuting.[99]

122. The Renault Twizy is a unique two-seater electric vehicle that combines car and motorcycle features. It is compact, lightweight, and designed for short urban trips.[100]

123. The E-bike backpack, developed by Xiaomi, is an innovative accessory that integrates an electric bicycle into a backpack. It can be quickly unfolded and transformed into a functional electric bike for short commutes.[123]

124. The Mullen MX-05, an electric SUV, is equipped with an air filtration system that can purify the air within the vehicle, removing pollutants, allergens, and odors, creating a clean and fresh interior environment.[124]

125. The GenZe 2.0, an electric scooter, features a removable battery that can be charged separately, allowing users to conveniently charge the battery indoors while leaving the scooter parked outside.[125]

Electric motor car Honda e presented at the Frankfurt International Motor Show IAA 2019
Electric motor car Honda e presented at the Frankfurt International Motor Show IAA 2019. Electric cars facts and figures. Photo © Artzzz

126. The Honda e, an electric city car, utilizes side view cameras instead of traditional side mirrors, reducing aerodynamic drag and improving overall vehicle efficiency.[126]

127. The Harley-Davidson LiveWire, an electric motorcycle, offers haptic feedback through the handlebars, providing riders with a tactile response that simulates the feeling of a traditional motorcycle’s engine vibrations.[127]

128. The Tropos Motors Able XR, an electric compact utility vehicle, can be transformed into a snowplow, allowing it to clear snow from sidewalks and small paths, offering a versatile and practical solution.[128]

129. The Rungu Electric Juggernaut, an electric trike, has two front wheels for enhanced stability and traction, making it suitable for off-road adventures and rugged terrains.[129]

130. The Lightyear One, a solar-powered electric car, is equipped with four independently driven wheels, allowing each wheel to optimize traction, stability, and energy regeneration, enhancing overall vehicle efficiency.[130]

131. The LMX 161-H, an electric dirt bike, combines pedal-assist technology with electric power, allowing riders to pedal and generate additional power while off-roading, offering a unique hybrid riding experience.[132]

132. The ElectroCat, developed by the University of Waterloo in Canada, is an electric motorcycle that holds the Guinness World Record for the longest distance traveled on a single charge by an electric motorcycle, covering 1,309.2 miles (2,107.8 kilometers).[133]

133. Thomas Davenport, an American blacksmith, developed the first practical electric car in 1835. It used a small electric motor to drive a model car.[134]

134. The first electric self-starter for automobiles was invented by Charles Kettering in 1911. This innovation eliminated the need for hand-cranking and made electric starters standard in gasoline-powered cars.[135]

Blue Toyota Mirai
Pretty Blue Toyota Mirai Fuel Cell Car. Facts about electric vehicles. Photo © Richard Gunion

135. The Toyota Mirai, a hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle, emits only water vapor as its byproduct, making it a zero-emission vehicle with an extended driving range compared to battery electric vehicles.[131]

136. In the early 1900s, electric vehicles held numerous speed records. Camille Jenatzy set the electric vehicle land speed record in 1899, reaching 62 mph (99 km/h) in his electric car “La Jamais Contente.”[136]

137. Electric delivery trucks were popular in the early 20th century, especially for milk and bread delivery, due to their quiet operation and clean nature. They were called “milk floats” in the UK.[137]

138. The 1970s oil crisis sparked renewed interest in electric vehicles as a way to reduce dependence on imported oil. Automakers like General Motors experimented with electric car prototypes during this time.[138]

139. The General Motors EV1, introduced in 1996, was one of the first modern electric cars available to consumers. It was available for lease only and became the subject of controversy when GM later recalled and scrapped most of the vehicles.[139]

140. The “Black Currant,” a fully electric hearse, was introduced in the UK in 2017, offering a sustainable and environmentally friendly option for funeral services.[140]

141. The introduction of Tesla’s Supercharger network in 2012 addressed one of the key concerns for electric vehicle owners: long-distance travel. These fast-charging stations allowed for quick recharging along major highways.[141]

142. The Gigafactory, Tesla’s massive battery factory in Nevada, began production in 2016. It is one of the largest buildings in the world and plays a significant role in scaling up battery production for electric vehicles.[142]

143. The manufacturing process of electric vehicles can have a lower carbon footprint compared to gasoline-powered vehicles. A study by the Union of Concerned Scientists found that EVs produce fewer lifetime emissions compared to most gasoline cars.[143]

144. The first electric vehicle rally, known as the WAVE Trophy, was held in Switzerland in 2011. It has since become an annual event, promoting electric mobility and showcasing the capabilities of electric vehicles in long-distance journeys.[144]

Mercedes-Benz EQC. for facts about electric vehicles
Photo © Mariusz Burcz

145. The Mercedes-Benz EQC, an electric SUV, incorporates “preconditioning” technology that allows owners to warm up or cool down the vehicle’s interior. At the same time, it is still plugged in, maximizing comfort and range.[145]

146. The world’s longest electric vehicle road trip was completed by Wiebe Wakker in 2016. He traveled over 59,000 miles (95,000 kilometers) across 33 countries in an electric car, relying on people’s hospitality for charging and accommodations.[146]

147. The Zapp i300 electric scooter, designed in the United Kingdom, features swappable battery packs that can be easily replaced to extend the range or charged independently.[147]

148. The Ola S1 electric scooter, launched in India, has a built-in voice assistant that can provide turn-by-turn navigation, vehicle diagnostics, and personalized recommendations to riders.[148]

149. The Arrival Van, an electric delivery van, uses a unique “skateboard” platform that houses the electric drivetrain and battery, allowing for easy customization and flexibility in vehicle design.[149]

150. The UBCO 2×2, an electric utility bike, is designed to handle rugged off-road terrains and can carry loads up to 220 pounds (100 kilograms) on its front and rear utility platforms.[150]