Best Books on Electric Vehicles

As the automotive world rapidly shifts towards sustainable transportation, electric vehicles (EVs) have become a hot topic. Whether you’re a curious beginner, an EV enthusiast, or an industry professional, books on electric vehicles offer valuable insights into this revolutionary technology.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the best books on electric vehicles, covering technical guides, consumer advice, historical perspectives, and future predictions.

Why Read Books on Electric Vehicles?

Before diving into our recommendations, let’s consider why books on electric vehicles are so important:

1. In-depth knowledge: Books on electric vehicles provide comprehensive coverage of topics, offering a thorough understanding of EV technology, history, and future prospects.
2. Expert perspectives: Many books on electric vehicles are written by industry insiders and researchers, providing unique insights.
3. Historical context: Books on electric vehicles often trace the development of EV technology, helping readers understand the industry’s evolution.
4. Future predictions: Authors of books on electric vehicles frequently discuss potential future developments, giving readers a glimpse into the future of sustainable transportation.
5. Technical details: For those interested in the nuts and bolts, books on electric vehicles can provide detailed explanations of EV systems and components.

Now, let’s explore some of the best books on electric vehicles available in various categories.

Books on Electric Vehicles: Technical Deep Dives

“The Tech Behind Electric Cars” by Matt Chandler

Published in 2020, this book is an excellent introduction to EV technology. Chandler’s work is particularly noteworthy for its accessibility, making it ideal for young readers or those new to the subject. Key features include:

• An exploration of EV evolution from the late 1990s to today
• Insights into the impressive range and speed capabilities of modern EVs
• A captivating journey through the technology behind electric vehicles

“Electric Vehicles: Modern Technologies and Trends” by Nil Patel, Akash Kumar Bhoi, Sanjeevikumar Padmanaban, and Jens Bo Holm-Nielsen

This comprehensive 2020 publication is one of the most technical books on electric vehicles available. It covers:

• A wide range of EV types, including hybrid, battery, fuel cell, and plug-in hybrid vehicles
• Both theoretical foundations and real-world applications
• Conventional and advanced electrical machines, battery power sources, and charging techniques
• Optimization methodologies for EV systems

Books on Electric Vehicles: Consumer Guides

“The Ultimate Electric Car Guide” by Ravinder R. Walls

Published in January 2024, this comprehensive guide is one of the most up-to-date books on electric vehicles for consumers. It covers:

• The latest EV technology
• Environmental benefits of electric vehicles
• Practical advice for both seasoned drivers and complete novices

“Driving Green on a Budget” by Ariya Santos

Released in August 2023, this book focuses on affordable electric cars. It addresses:

• Concerns about limited charging infrastructure
• Range anxiety and common misconceptions
• Budgeting and evaluating family needs
• Tax credits and government incentives
• Financing options, including leasing

“How To Buy An Affordable Electric Car: A Tightwad’s Guide to EV Ownership” by Matt DeLorenzo

This 2022 publication, updated for 2024, is perfect for budget-conscious consumers. It covers:

• Strategies for finding affordable EVs
• Understanding EV maintenance and charging
• Exploring future EV technologies

Books on Electric Vehicles: Historical Perspectives

“The Electric Vehicle Revolution” by Kevin A. Wilson

Published in November 2023, this book by automotive journalist Kevin Wilson provides a thorough overview of the EV industry’s past, present, and future. Key features include:

• A history of electric vehicles from the Victorian era to the present day
• Insights into the competitive landscape of early electric cars vs. gasoline cars
• Profiles of key players in the EV industry and their contributions
• Future predictions for electric vehicles and potential challenges ahead

Books on Electric Vehicles: Industry Analysis and Future Trends

“Electric Dreams” by Etienne Psaila

Released in February 2024, this book focuses on the rise of electric supercars and hypercars. It offers:

• An exploration of cutting-edge electric vehicle technology
• Insights into the future of mobility and sustainability in the automotive world
• A look at the engineering feats and aesthetic splendor of electric supercars and hypercars

“Do Androids Dream of Electric Cars?” by James Wilt

This 2020 publication takes a broader look at the future of transportation, including electric vehicles. Wilt’s book covers:

• The state of public transportation and its potential future
• The “three revolutions” in automotive transportation
• Environmental concerns and climate change in relation to transportation
• Economic and racial disparities in access to transportation
• The role of tech giants like Google and Uber in shaping the future of mobility

“Chinese Electric Vehicle Trailblazers” by Jan Y. Yang, Yunyi Gu, and Zi Ling Tan

Published in April 2023, this book offers insights into the rapidly growing Chinese EV market. It covers:

• Business models of Chinese EV manufacturers
• Unique selling propositions of Chinese electric cars
• Sales, marketing, and pricing strategies in the Chinese EV market

Books on Electric Vehicles: DIY and Maintenance Guides

“Electric Car Maintenance: A Beginner’s Guide” by PS Publishing

Published in November 2023, this guide covers:

• Essential components of an electric car
• Step-by-step instructions for common maintenance tasks and repairs
• Troubleshooting tips and safety guidelines

“Fundamental Guide on Electric Car Conversion System” by Cuthred E.A Ivar

Released in October 2023, this manual is perfect for those interested in converting classic cars to electric power. It includes:

• Detailed instructions for converting combustion engine vehicles to all-electric
• Information on necessary kits, tools, and techniques
• Guidance on reducing emissions through EV conversion

Books on Electric Vehicles for Different Audiences

For Beginners: “Electric Cars For Dummies” by Brian Culp

Published in September 2022, this book is an accessible introduction to the world of EVs. It covers:

• Selecting the right EV for your needs and budget
• Understanding EV charging and maintenance
• Cost differences between electric and gas-powered vehicles

For Children: “Ollie Goes the Distance / All About Electric Cars” by Claire Winslow

This unique 2-in-1 book, published in August 2022, introduces children to the world of electric cars through:

• A fictional story about an electric car named Ollie
• A nonfiction exploration of real-life electric cars with photos and fun facts

For Policy Makers: “ELECTRIC CARS: THE RIGHT CHOICE?” by Francisco E. Yanez

Updated in September 2023, this book provides a systemic view of electric vehicle transitions, covering:

• Facts and myths about EVs from a systemic perspective
• Advantages and disadvantages of electric mobility
• Policy implications of widespread EV adoption

The Future of Books on Electric Vehicles

As the EV industry continues to evolve rapidly, we can expect to see more books on electric vehicles hitting the shelves in the coming years. These future publications will likely cover emerging technologies, such as solid-state batteries, wireless charging, and vehicle-to-grid systems.

Moreover, as EVs become more mainstream, we may see an increase in books on electric vehicles that focus on specific niches, such as:

• Electric motorcycles and scooters
• Electric boats and marine applications
• Electric aircraft and urban air mobility
• Integration of EVs with smart homes and renewable energy systems

Conclusion:

The world of electric vehicles is exciting and rapidly changing. Books on electric vehicles offer a wealth of information to help you navigate this evolving landscape. Whether you’re a potential EV buyer, an industry professional, or simply curious about the future of transportation, there’s a book on electric vehicles out there for you.

We encourage you to explore the books on electric vehicles mentioned in this article and beyond. The field of electric vehicles is constantly evolving, and new books on electric vehicles are being published regularly to keep up with the latest developments.

What are your thoughts on the books on electric vehicles we’ve discussed? Have you read any of them, or do you have other recommendations to add to our list? We’d love to hear your opinions and experiences with books on electric vehicles. Please leave a comment below and join the conversation about the electrifying world of EV literature!

Remember, staying informed about electric vehicles isn’t just about keeping up with the latest trends—it’s about being part of a global shift towards more sustainable transportation. So grab a book on electric vehicles, dive in, and electrify your knowledge!