Vehicle Types

Electric vehicles come in many forms and sizes. This guide explains the most common vehicle types available on the market.

Sedan

Sedans are four-door cars with a separate trunk compartment. They are designed to provide comfort and convenience to passengers and are popular among families and commuters. Sedans range from compact to full-size models and are known for their smooth and quiet ride. They are also often more aerodynamic than SUVs and crossovers, which can improve efficiency and range. See all sedans in the EVKX EV database.

Notchback Sedan

A notchback sedan features a distinct separation between the trunk, rear window, and roof. This design provides a classic look and often results in a spacious trunk. Notchback sedans are popular for their traditional styling and practicality.

Fastback Sedan

Fastback sedans have a continuous slope from the roof to the rear end, creating a sleek and aerodynamic profile. This design enhances the vehicle's sporty appearance and can improve efficiency. However, it may slightly reduce rear headroom and trunk space.

Liftback Sedan

Liftback sedans combine features of a sedan and a hatchback. They have a sloping rear roofline like a fastback, but the rear door opens upward like a hatchback. This design provides the sporty look of a fastback with the practicality of a hatchback, offering easier access to the cargo area.

Hatchback

Hatchbacks are compact cars with a rear door that opens upward to provide access to the cargo area. Their design usually improves both headroom and cargo flexibility compared to similarly sized sedans. Hatchbacks are popular for city driving because of their compact dimensions, efficiency, and practicality. They are also relatively affordable and easy to park. See all hatchbacks in the EVKX EV database.

Crossover

Crossovers blend elements of SUVs and hatchbacks, combining a more spacious body style with easier maneuverability than larger SUVs. They are typically smaller and lighter than SUVs, which can improve efficiency. Crossovers usually have a higher ride height than hatchbacks and are often available with all-wheel drive. They are ideal for families who need a spacious and versatile EV but do not need the size of a larger SUV. Manufacturers often use the terms SUV and crossover interchangeably, and there is no universally accepted rule for when an EV becomes an SUV rather than a crossover. In the EVKX database, we typically consider EVs shorter than 450 cm to be crossovers. See all crossovers in the EVKX EV database.

Sport-Utility Vehicle (SUV)

SUVs, or Sport Utility Vehicles, are typically larger and taller than other passenger cars and usually offer higher ground clearance. They are popular because of their spacious interiors, upright seating position, and versatility. SUVs come in various sizes, from compact to full-size, and many are available with all-wheel drive, making them suitable for a wide range of road and weather conditions. Over the last decade, SUVs have taken an increasingly large share of the market.

SUVs also come in different size classes. EVKX.net considers SUVs shorter than 480 cm to be small SUVs, SUVs from 480 cm up to 520 cm to be mid-size SUVs, and SUVs larger than 520 cm to be full-size SUVs.

See all SUVs in the EVKX EV database.

Coupe SUV

Coupe SUVs combine the elevated ride height and practicality of an SUV with a lower, more sloping roofline. This gives them a sportier and more aerodynamic profile than traditional SUVs. In EVs, the sleeker shape can help reduce drag and improve efficiency and range.

Coupe SUVs are designed for buyers who want the practicality of an SUV with a more dynamic appearance. However, they can be more expensive than traditional SUVs and may offer less rear headroom and cargo space because of their roof design. See all Coupe SUVs in the EVKX EV database.

Pickup Truck

Pickup trucks are designed for heavy-duty work, towing, and carrying large loads. They have an open cargo bed at the rear, which makes them suitable for hauling goods and equipment. Pickup trucks come in various sizes and are often available with two-wheel or four-wheel drive. In the EV market, they appeal to buyers who need utility, towing capability, and off-road potential. See all pickup trucks in the EVKX EV database.

Station Wagon

Station wagons, also known as estate cars, are similar to sedans but have an extended roofline that continues to the rear of the vehicle. They offer a spacious cargo area while keeping a lower ride height and more car-like driving characteristics than SUVs. Station wagons are known for their comfortable ride, good handling, and practicality. They are available in different sizes and can be equipped with front-wheel, rear-wheel, or all-wheel drive. See all station wagons in the EVKX EV database.

Convertible

Convertibles are cars with retractable roofs that allow for open-air driving. They come in various sizes and styles, from compact two-seaters to larger luxury models. Convertibles offer a distinctive driving experience, although they are still rare in the EV market.

Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV)

MPVs, or Multi-Purpose Vehicles, are designed to provide ample space for passengers and cargo. They typically have a tall roofline, flexible seating layouts, and often three rows of seats. MPVs are commonly used as family vehicles and are valued for their practicality and comfort. They are also available with front-wheel, rear-wheel, or all-wheel drive. See all MPVs in the EVKX EV database.

Coupe

Coupes are typically two-door cars designed with an emphasis on style and sporty proportions. They often have a lower roofline and a more performance-focused character than sedans. There are currently very few electric coupes available.