An electric vehicle (EV) is any car, truck, bus, or van that is propelled by an electric motor that receives power from onboard batteries. There are two dominant battery types that can be used in EVs. Energy sources for charging the batteries are independent of the vehicle and include solar cells and the utility grid.

Manufacturers currently offer numerous EVs, including electric cars, light trucks, service vans, and buses. While availability is limited to specific geographic areas, the Electric Vehicle Association of America estimates that over 4,800 electric cars and light trucks have been delivered to consumers over the last four years. In addition, specialty design vehicles, such as buses that operate on a regular route and neighborhood electric vehicles (NEVs) that are designed for short distances, have proven successful. Technology initially developed for electric vehicles is now used in gasoline powered hybrid vehicles that use electric motor assisted propulsion and regenerative braking.