What is the significance of kWh in electric vehicles?

The significance of kWh (kilowatt-hours) in electric vehicles lies in its role as a measure of battery capacity. Essentially, it quantifies the total amount of energy that a battery can store. This measurement is critical because it directly impacts the vehicle's range—the distance it can travel on a single charge. A higher kWh rating indicates a larger battery capacity, which typically translates to a longer driving range for the vehicle.

In the context of electric vehicles, understanding kWh also helps consumers and manufacturers assess energy efficiency, charging times, and overall performance. When evaluating two electric vehicles, one can use the kWh rating to infer which vehicle may be more suitable based on travel needs, such as how often charging might be required and how far the vehicle can go between charges.