There are three main types of electric vehicles: pure electric, plug-in hybrid, and hybrid. Collectively these vehicles are known as Ultra Low Emission Vehicles or ULEVs.

Types of electric vehicle

Pure-electric vehicles use energy stored in rechargeable battery packs to drive the vehicle.

Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles mix an internal combustion engine with battery technology, which usually provides pure-electric capability of around 30 miles.

Hybrid vehicles use an internal combustion engine to power a generator, which in turn charges the battery internally without plug-in capability.

Charging an electric vehicle

While most electric vehicle drivers charge their car at home, there is a network of 337 public charge points across Northern Ireland. These are owned and operated by the Electricity Supply Board.

You can find real-time information for this network of charge points at the following link:

• Charge point map.

The public charge points help extend a vehicle's range by providing the chance to charge it when driving long distances.

Electric bikes

Electric bikes, known as electrically-assisted pedal cycles (EPACs), have a small motor as well as ‘pedal power’. You can find more information about them on the Electric bikes page.