Electric vehicles explained Everything you need to know about going electric Discover how electric and hybrid vehicles work, the everyday benefits they bring and the charging options available, helping you decide whether electrified driving fits your lifestyle. Ask a question

Choose your franchise

Benefits

Easy & Convenient Charging You can charge an electric vehicle conveniently at home overnight and use an expanding public charging network to support longer journeys. Public rapid chargers replenish compatible batteries much faster, making electric motoring increasingly practical for travel beyond the local area.

Lower Running Costs Electric vehicles cost less to run than comparable petrol or diesel cars, particularly when charging at home. Plus, with fewer moving components, fully electric powertrains typically require less routine maintenance, helping reduce everyday ownership costs over time.

Environmental Benefits Fully electric vehicles produce no exhaust emissions while driving, helping improve local air quality, particularly in busy urban areas. Their environmental impact is reduced further when batteries are charged using electricity generated from renewable energy sources at home.

Electric Vehicles Explained

Not all electrified cars work in the same way. Understanding the differences between electric, plug-in hybrid and hybrid technology can help you choose confidently.

Electric vehicle (EV) An EV runs entirely on electricity stored in a rechargeable battery, powering one or more electric motors. With no petrol or diesel engine, EVs offer a smooth, quiet driving experience and zero exhaust emissions.

Plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) PHEVs combine a rechargeable battery and electric motor with a petrol engine. They complete shorter journeys using electric power alone, while the combustion engine provides added flexibility when travelling further, without the need for charging stops.

Hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) An HEV also combines a petrol engine with an electric motor and battery to improve efficiency. However, unlike a PHEV, it doesn’t require external charging, instead replenishing its battery via regenerative braking and the combustion engine.

FAQs

Are electric cars comfortable on long journeys?

Yes. Electric cars are typically smooth, quiet and relaxing over longer distances. The Volvo EX90, for example, combines effortless driving with exceptional comfort and luxuries such as massage seats.

Are electric cars enjoyable to drive?

Certainly. An EV’s electric motor develops instant torque, making acceleration swift and seamless. The Polestar 4, for instance, sprints from 0-62mph in just 3.8 seconds when selected with the dual motor setup.

Can I drive an electric car in cold weather?

Yes. Electric cars operate normally in cold conditions, although lower temperatures can temporarily reduce driving range. Pre-conditioning the cabin while the vehicle is plugged in helps preserve battery energy before setting off.

Can an electric car tow a caravan or trailer?

Many electric vehicles are approved for towing. The Hyundai Ioniq 6 Ultimate AWD, for example, is an ideal towing EV; it’s confident and stable with a 1,500 kg towing capacity and strong all-wheel-drive performance.

Are electric cars suitable for long journeys?

Yes. Modern EVs can cover substantial distances between charges, while rapid charging makes longer trips increasingly straightforward. The MG IM5, for example, offers a range of up to 441 miles, and 10% to 80% DC charging in as little as 17 minutes.

Where can I find electrified vehicles in the Midlands?

Paul Rigby offers a wide selection of electric and hybrid vehicles from Volvo, Hyundai, MG and Polestar, with dealerships conveniently located across Staffordshire, West Midlands, Worcestershire, Warwickshire and Leicestershire.

Get in touch Drive the future, go electric Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Get in Touch

Whatever your question or feedback we are here to help. So please feel free to contact us

Email Us

FIND US

Join us on Social

Immerse yourself even deeper. Visit our social channels

Financial Disclosure

Paul Rigby Limited is an appointed representative of ITC Compliance Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (their registration number is 313486). Permitted activities include advising on and arranging general insurance contracts and acting as a credit broker not a lender.

We can introduce you to a limited number of finance providers. We do not charge a fee for our Consumer Credit services. We do not act as a financial adviser, or fiduciary. We act in our own interest, whichever lender we introduce you to, we will typically receive commission from them based on either a fixed fee or a fixed percentage of the amount you borrow. Any and all commission amounts will be fully disclosed to you as part of your sales journey. You will be required to give your fully informed consent to our receipt of this commission. By doing this, you acknowledge that you understand our role as a credit broker, and that we will receive a financial incentive if you take out a loan from a lender that we introduce you to.

All finance applications are subject to status, terms and conditions apply, UK residents only, 18s or over, Guarantees may be required.

© 2026 Paul Rigby Limited

Reg Office: Chester Road Erdington Birmingham West Midlands B24 0QY United Kingdom
Reg. Company Number: 07129638
VAT Reg. No. 986295948

Heading

Contact