Electric vehicles, commonly known as EVs, are no longer the stuff of science fiction, but are here and ready to drive. 1.4 million people have already switched from petrol to electric in the UK, but what one is actually like to drive is still a mystery to many. Regardless of why you bought one, for the environment, reduce costs, or simply the design, there are several surprises after you’ve purchased your first EV.
Here’s what most EV owners find out in the first week of having an electric car.
The start-up process
One of the biggest shocks after starting up the car is just how quiet it is. Gone are the days of an engine rumbling or mechanical hum, but you’ll have to get used to the silence of an EV. Many new EV drivers wonder if the car has started at all when there’s no sound!
Even when the car is switched on and you’re driving around the streets, the silence takes some adjusting and is somewhat confusing at first. EVs usually emit a humming sound to alert pedestrians or cyclists that there is indeed a car being driven in busy areas.
Charging is a whole new world
Many new EV drivers will instantly be concerned about their car’s battery and how long they can drive on one charge. Adapting to a different routine is crucial and charging at home overnight becomes the new normal. This is the simplest and most convenient way to juice up your EV, and you’ll find that this is enough for a normal day’s drive around your local town or city.
Public charging requires a bit of planning, of course, as it’s not quite as fast as filling up a petrol or diesel car. If making a road trip, then you’ll likely have to stop a few times to ensure your car’s battery is close to full, but major cities have hundreds of chargers dotted around, so you’re never far from one. Topping up, rather than a complete empty to full, is preferable for public chargers (much like your mobile phone).
The acceleration and handling is better than you thought
Having less maintenance such as oil changes and spark plug replacements is one thing, but the smooth handling and quick acceleration pleasantly surprises new EV owners.
EV motors deliver almost instant torque as soon as you hit the accelerator, and you’ll have to get used to the smoothness despite the lack of sound. A lower centre of gravity means the handling and cornering are very precise. In fact, EVs from smart have an interesting design to reduce drag, which in turn helps to increase the battery range.
Worrying about the range
For many of us accustomed to petrol cars, we’re used to knowing how far we can push the car before having to stop at a service station. It’s understandably different for electric cars, at least in the first few months, for getting to know how long your range will last.
Your EV will always tell you how long you can keep driving before needing more power, and before long you’ll stop worrying that your car will suddenly stop in the middle of the road because it has run out of electricity. EVs are built with many useful features to save power whenever possible, so you won’t need to fret about wasting electricity.
Considering the weather
In areas with a colder climate, such as the UK, it’s worth noting that freezing temperatures can affect the EV’s battery. While it’s still easy enough to operate an EV in the UK, just be aware that very low temperatures can decrease the range, increase charging time, and reduce the battery life.
However, plenty of EV owners in incredibly cold countries such as Norway and Sweden, for instance, can handle owning an EV in winter by keeping the battery warm (driving short distances every day helps), charging fully before leaving the house and ensuring you know about charge points along the route, as well as not wasting any battery life unnecessarily.
You feel part of an exclusive club
You’d be surprised how fast you can strike up conversations with other EV owners when standing around charging points. You feel a bond with other electric car owners as you’re part of a new movement and always want to learn the best tips and share advice. Plus, you’re suddenly the electric vehicle expert for anyone you know who is considering purchasing an EV!
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