We use cookies to make your experience better. To comply with the new e-Privacy directive, we need to ask for your consent to set the cookies. Learn more.
Electric car terminology explained: your essential EV glossary
17 Jul 2026
As electric vehicles become an increasingly common sight on UK roads, drivers are encountering a whole new set of words, acronyms and technical terms. From kWh and regenerative braking to AC charging, DC rapid charging and WLTP range, understanding electric car terminology can help you make more informed decisions when researching, buying or driving an EV.
In this guide, we'll explain the most common electric vehicle (EV) terms in simple language, helping you confidently navigate conversations about electric cars, charging and battery technology. Whether you're considering your first electric Mercedes-Benz or simply want to better understand the world of EVs, this glossary has you covered.
BEV
BEV stands for Battery Electric Vehicle, which are fully electric vehicles, meaning they don’t have a combustion engine. They’re driven by an electric motor which is powered by a rechargeable battery.
Charging speed
This refers to the time it takes to charge an electric car from empty to full. Most drivers choose to top-up charge rather than waiting to recharge from empty to full. The bigger the battery and the slower the charging point, the longer it takes to charge from empty to full.
Driving range
Driving Range describes the distance an EV can cover on a single full charge of the battery. It’s similar to the mile range for a full tank of fuel.
Fast charger
Fast Chargers are the UK’s most common type of charge-point found in public. They charge faster than a standard home charging wallbox, making them a popular choice for topping up your range.
Horsepower
The measurement of power output of an engine or motor, which can also be given in kilowatts for an electric motor.
kW
Kilowatts are a measurement of electrical power, roughly equivalent to 1.36 horsepower.
kWh
There are 1000 Watts per hour, which is the measure of the output of power.
LEV
LEV stands for Low Emissions Vehicle, which describes vehicles that are powered by an electric motor, whether fully or partially.
Mild Hybrid
Mild hybrids also have a small electric motor, but unlike full hybrids, it is solely used to assist the petrol engine. The car cannot drive on battery power alone.
Plug-in Hybrid
Hybrid vehicles have an internal combustion engine alongside an electric motor powered by a battery. Once the battery range has been used, the technology switches to the internal combustion engine.
Range anxiety
The fear of running out of charge while driving an electric vehicle. Take a look at our guide to overcoming range anxiety.
Rapid charger
Found on motorways or A roads, they’re public charge points that provide the quickest charge of your vehicle, using DC electricity. Typically used for top up charging or charging your vehicle on a journey while at service stations, including the Cornwall Services.
Regenerative braking
Regenerative braking helps save fuel, by acting as a mini-generator when the vehicle slows down, storing kinetic energy in the battery to help you travel further.