Internal Combustion Vehicles (ICVs) run on gasoline or diesel, while Electric Vehicles (EVs) are powered by rechargeable batteries. All vehicles need a motor to transform a reaction into forward motion.

Review the video below to explore the difference in engines between ICVs and EVs.

Science Please! : The Internal Combustion Engine

In combustion engines, fuel is compressed and ignited within the engine. These mini-explosions transform between 16 and 25% of the energy produced into forward motion. The rest of the energy produced releases carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides into the environment, heat, and noise.

In electric motors, energy is generated by electromagnetic fields, using fewer parts to transform energy into forward motion. This process is more efficient, transforming 65-69% of energy into forward motion with the change in current sent to the motor.

THINK-PAIR-SHARE

  1. In your own words, describe the difference between induction engines and internal combustion engines.
  2. What are some ways that vehicles increase efficiency to help reduce the impact on the environment?
  3. How can we limit the use of internal combustion engines in our communities?