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Automotive glossary

Range Extender

A range extender is a small combustion engine in an electric car that generates electricity to extend range.

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What is Range Extender?

The wheels are driven by the electric motor. The engine acts only as a generator. It is used in some electric models. Range extenders were used on some early electric models and are returning in some larger vehicles. They allow a smaller battery while avoiding range worries on long trips.

How it works

The generator charges the battery or powers the motor.

Why it matters for your car

Engine maintenance is still required. Efficiency is lower when running on the generator.

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