Electric vehicles are powered by batteries instead of gasoline and can be charged by plugging into an electric source. There are several types including battery electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids, and hybrids. Major challenges to widespread adoption include high battery costs, lack of charging infrastructure, and customer concerns about range and availability of service. However, countries like China and the US have seen growing electric vehicle markets, and companies like Tesla are helping drive innovation in battery and vehicle technology. Widespread adoption will require continued improvements in costs, infrastructure support, and customer education.