An electric vehicle is a vehicle that uses one or more electric motors for propulsion. It can be powered by a collector system, with electricity from extravehicular sources, or it can be powered autonomously by a battery.

Maintenance needs and safety requirements for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) are similar to those of conventional vehicles, while all-electric vehicles require less maintenance.
Manufacturers are designing these vehicles and publishing guides with maintenance and safety in mind.