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If you’re considering purchasing an Electrified Vehicle, Toyota is here to help you make the most informed decision. For over 20 years, we have been committed to sustainability, offering a full Electrified lineup of innovative and capable trucks, sedans, and SUVs. Like all our gas models, you can expect the same quality and features, with added benefits and reduced carbon footprint.
Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about buying an Electrified Vehicle!
When you think of Electrified Vehicles, hybrids may come to mind first. But did you know there are 4 types of Electrified Vehicles with unique powertrains in Toyota’s lineup? Here is a quick overview, along with the benefits and drawbacks to each type:
BEV – Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV) run on electricity alone, with no exhaust coming from the tailpipe. A large onboard battery contains all the electricity needed to power these vehicles.
PHEV – Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV) are very similar to Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV), with the addition of a larger battery which allows you longer range and power than a regular HEV would use.
HEV – Combining the strength of two power sources, the Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) uses a gas engine and an electric motor. The vehicle can automatically choose the best blend of power.
FCEV – Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEV) run on only hydrogen, emitting only water from the tailpipe.
Toyota has made it simple and easy to charge a Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV). You can plug your vehicle in whenever convenient – at your home, at work, or at the 5,000 charging locations in Canada.
There are three levels/types of charging points, each with various speeds of charge which are measured in Kilowatts per hour.
While Level 1 can be the most convenient, it also delivers the slowest way to charge. What makes it most convenient is that all you need is a standard 120-volt AC household outlet. Level 1 gives you 1.2 -1.9 kW/hour or 6-8 kilometers of driving range per hour of charging. Keep in mind that this is still dependent on the size of the battery. For instance, the bZ4X can take up to 50 hours or more to charge. The good news is that no other equipment is required.
Level 2 works by using a 240-volt AC outlet, the same used by large appliances in your home. This charges your EV 5 times faster than Level 1. This level offers 7-22 kW or 25-60 kilometers of driving range per hour of charging. You will find this charger at most public charging stations and can even get it installed at your home. Similar with the Level 1, charging time will depend on battery size.
*Other factors that can influence charging times are starting battery level, outside temperature and HVAC/accessory use.
Level 3 chargers are also known as Fast or Rapid Chargers, are the fastest chargers available. They use DC (Direct Current) at 480-volts and are available at some public charging stations.
Always remember that there are other factors that can influence charging times including outside temperatures, HVAC & accessory usage, the vehicle’s maximum charging rate, battery size, and even how empty or full the battery is at the start of charging. You can get the best charge when electricity rates are low during their off-peak hours.
To find a charging location near you, take a look at the Transport Canada or ChargePoint websites.
Have you ever heard of range anxiety? One concern many people have with EVs is how far you can go until your next charge and if you will make it. When it comes to electric range, Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV), which include the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid and Prius Plug-in Hybrid, have a larger battery and stronger motor than a Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV). This allows you to have a further driving range than the HEV in just EV-mode.
Electric Vehicles (EV) on the other hand, have more driving range than you might think. The bZ4X can drive up to 406km (as a front wheel model on a full charge). If you’re going on a longer drive, keep in mind that while you can easily charge your EV with a Level 1 Charger, this will only add a few extra kilometers of range per hour.
PHEVs offer between 64km and 72km of EV range, so they are best suited for shorter rides such as your daily commute. With both a gas engine and electric motor, even if your hybrid battery runs low, you never need to worry about finding a charging station. If you’re looking to extend your electric-only range, you can plug-in your vehicle.
The Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) uses an electric motor paired with a gas engine which doesn’t need to be plugged in. This allows longer range as you don’t have to worry about your battery running low or finding a charging station. The vehicle’s hybrid battery will recharge on the go through regenerative braking.
FCEVs like the Mirai have a range of up to 647km on one single tank of hydrogen. Amazingly, this vehicle emits zero emissions and doesn’t need to be plugged in. Find your closest refueling station here.
One thing to note is that weather will affect the range of your EV. Very high and low temperatures both affect your vehicle’s performance, range, and charge time.
While all vehicles face resistance in extreme temperatures when fluid and mechanisms are slower, EVs face additional challenges such as longer charging times in the winter. Ions that need to flow freely to charge your EV is much slower in cold weather, leading to longer charging times whether you are charging at home or at a public charging station.
When it comes down to it, every driver will experience different driving conditions depending on the environment they are in.
Unfortunately for Canadian drivers, this means you will face the most challenges in the winter. Do not worry, there are still always ways to make the most of your battery in any type of weather!
Electrified Vehicles follow a maintenance schedule of every 6 months or 8,000km. However, Toyota’s hybrid electric system may be able to reduce the amount of servicing your vehicle might need.
When you do need maintenance, your local dealer has Toyota University Trained Technicians available to service your vehicle and use similar Toyota Genuine Parts you would see on a gas vehicle. Toyota Service Connect is one of your best tools to keeping your vehicle in its best condition. It informs you when your vehicle needs maintenance, provides vehicle health reports, warnings, and ensures you have the proper information for your dealer when you do have an appointment.
For those who are interested in purchasing an EV, there are incentives offered by different levels of Canadian government. It is best to check with what your province offers as different provinces have different incentives; some federal incentives are available too. You should always investigate these options prior to purchasing an EV as these incentives can change. [i]
With so many Electrified Vehicles to choose from, you are bound to find the perfect match for your lifestyle and needs. Choosing an Electrified Vehicle helps reducing CO2 emissions that can help lessen greenhouse gasses and lessen our impact on the environment.
Still needing guidance on which Electrified Vehicle is right for you? Toyota has over 15 electrified models available, including sedans, trucks, and SUVs. Choose from the Prius, Prius Prime, Corolla Hybrid, Camry Hybrid, Mirai, Crown, bZ4X, Corolla Cross Hybrid, RAV4 Hybrid, RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid, Crown Signia, Highlander and Grand Highlander Hybrid, Sequoia, Sienna, Tundra Hybrid and more!
If you already have selected the vehicle of your dreams, customize it from top to bottom here!
[i] DISCLAIMER
* For qualifying transactions that meet the Government of Canada Incentives for Zero-Emission Vehicles (iZEV) Program eligibility criteria. The Government of Canada Incentives for Zero-Emission Vehicles (iZEV) Program provides an incentive towards the purchase or lease of a new clean energy vehicle. Click here to learn more about Government of Canada Incentives for Zero-Emission Vehicles (iZEV) Program eligibility criteria and how to apply, or visit your preferred Toyota dealer.”
