Electric Vehicle Technology and Charging Infrastructure: A Comprehensive Review

The rapid rise in global greenhouse gas emissions and the pressing need to combat climate change have accelerated the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) as a sustainable alternative to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. This paper provides a comprehensive review of EV technologies and their associated charging infrastructure, emphasizing their environmental, economic, and performance advantages over traditional ICE vehicles. It explores various EV types, including Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs), Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs), Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs), and Extended Range Electric Vehicles (ER-EVs), highlighting their unique features and operational mechanisms. The study delves into charging technologies, such as conductive, inductive, and battery swapping systems, and evaluates their efficiency, scalability, and integration with power grids. Additionally, the role of power converters in enhancing charging efficiency is analyzed. Despite significant advancements, challenges such as standardization, infrastructure scalability, and grid integration persist. This review underscores the need for continued innovation in battery technology, charging systems, and renewable energy integration to support the global transition to electric mobility, aligning with sustainability goals and emission reduction targets by 2030.