July 27, 2023
Experience of driving an EV
Many people find their first experience behind the wheel of an EV a little unusual, but it doesn't take long to get used to.
Driving an electric vehicle (EV) can feel a bit different compared to driving a traditional petrol or diesel car, but most people find it to be a pleasant experience and never turn back. Here are some of the common characteristics of driving an EV:
Quiet
Electric vehicles are very quiet, especially at lower speeds. This can make for a calm, peaceful driving experience. In the European Union and the UK, new types of four-wheel electric vehicles must be equipped with an Acoustic Vehicle Alert System (AVAS).
Smooth
Because EVs have fewer moving parts and don't require traditional gear shifts, the ride can be very smooth. There's no noticeable "gear change" or "engine rev," just a continuous, seamless acceleration.
Quick Acceleration
Electric motors can provide instant torque. Torque is the twisting force that gets the car moving, and having it available instantly means that EVs can accelerate very quickly right from a stop. This can make EVs feel zippy and responsive to drive.
Regenerative Braking
Many electric cars feature regenerative braking, which allows the vehicle to recover and store some of the energy that's usually lost when braking. When you lift your foot off the accelerator, the electric motor runs in reverse to slow the car down, turning some of the car's kinetic energy back into electrical energy to charge the battery. This can increase the car's range, but it also means that the car starts slowing down as soon as you ease off the accelerator, which can take a bit of getting used to.
Driving Modes
Some EVs offer different driving modes, which can change the feel of the car. For example, an "Eco" mode might limit acceleration and top speed to maximise range, while a "Sport" mode might make the car feel more responsive.
Lower Center of Gravity
Because the batteries in EVs are usually located on the floor of the vehicle, EVs often have a lower center of gravity which can improve handling and make them feel stable and planted on the road.
Utility and Boot Space
Electric vehicles can sometimes offer more boot space compared to traditional petrol or diesel cars. This is largely because electric cars don't need as many mechanical components, like a big engine or a fuel tank, freeing up more space for storage. Many electric vehicles have a "frunk" (a portmanteau of "front" and "trunk"), which is an additional storage space under the hood where the engine would be in a conventional car.
Interior Comfort and Tech Features
The interior of an EV often emphasises comfort and cutting-edge technology. Many have high-end infotainment systems with large screens, connectivity options, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). These features can contribute significantly to your comfort and enjoyment while driving. Some cars even allow you to watch Netflix on the big screen whilst you’re recharging!
Remember, like any car, the exact driving experience can vary depending on the specific make and model of the EV. It's always a good idea to take a test drive to get a feel for it yourself.
