Electric SUVs combine the versatility of a high-riding sport-utility vehicle with the environmental consciousness of an electric powertrain. Electric SUVs come in many shapes and sizes ranging from sleek crossovers with sloping roof lines to gargantuan full-size models with three rows of seats. While there is quite a bit of variety in the segment, all electric SUVs rely on electrons instead of fossil fuels for propulsion. Electric SUVs use electric motors and a battery pack instead of an internal-combustion engine to drive the wheels.

Electric SUVs produce no direct emissions, making them an eco-friendly option compared to gas-burning SUVs. Their lack of a noisy internal combustion engine also means that electric SUVs tend to be far quieter, making their interior experience a bit more tranquil. While most SUV buyers typically prioritize utility over performance, many electric SUVs offer both. Models including the Kia EV9 and Volvo EX90 provide seating for up to seven passengers and can accelerate to 60 mph in under 5.0 seconds.

EV range is the distance that an electric vehicle can travel on a single charge before needing to be plugged back in. Think of it as the distance a gasoline-powered vehicle can travel on a full tank before it runs out of gas. However, EV range can be greatly reduced by several factors that don’t impact internal combustion cars as significantly. Extremely cold temperatures can dramatically reduce EV range, mainly because heating systems (both for warming the battery pack and for warming the cabin) draw so much power. The amount of range you observe can also vary due to the type of driving you do. EVs are more efficient in stop-and-go city driving, as their regenerative braking systems recoup energy when slowing down. Maintaining high speeds, such as on the highway, can negatively impact EV range due to drag and less usage of the regenerative braking system.

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