Summary
- Torque delivery is different in electric vehicles, delivering peak torque immediately from a standstill
- Range anxiety or awareness is necessary for EV drivers, requiring more planning for charging
- Regenerative braking can feel odd to novice EV drivers, with some EVs offering one-pedal driving mode
- EVs are quiet, which can be confusing for new drivers who rely on auditory feedback
- Shifting a Tesla into drive or reverse can be a challenge without traditional stalks on the steering wheel
Article
Making the switch from combustion to electric cars may seem daunting, but in reality, it is a manageable transition. In 2024, the author replaced both of their family’s combustion cars with new electric vehicles – a Hyundai Ioniq 5 and a Kia EV9. The adjustment to driving an electric vehicle involves a period of getting used to the differences in performance and features. While there are some quirks to be aware of, the overall experience of driving an electric vehicle is not considered a major life cataclysm.
One of the significant differences between electric and combustion vehicles is the torque delivery. Electric vehicles can deliver peak torque immediately from a standstill, which can feel quick and responsive to first-time electric vehicle drivers. Some manufacturers, like Chevy, have tuned their electric vehicles to bring on torque more gradually to make the transition smoother for combustion drivers. Other electric vehicles may require drivers to be more delicate with throttle inputs to manage the torque effectively.
Range anxiety, or the concern about running out of battery power before reaching a charging station, is a common issue for electric vehicle drivers. Unlike gasoline cars where refueling is quick and readily available, driving an electric vehicle requires planning out charging stops and being aware of energy consumption. While range anxiety can be a concern, many drivers find that they adapt to managing the range over time, especially with access to home chargers and long-range electric vehicles.
Regenerative braking is another feature unique to electric vehicles that can feel odd to novice drivers. Instead of relying solely on friction braking, electric vehicles use regenerative braking to recover energy and charge the battery. Some electric vehicles offer one-pedal driving modes where lifting off the accelerator decelerates the vehicle enough to stop without using the brake pedal. Getting used to these systems may take some time, but they can enhance efficiency and driving experience once mastered.
Electric vehicles are known for their smooth and quiet operation, which can be disorienting for new drivers accustomed to the noise of a combustion engine. While the lack of engine noise can lead to a more serene driving experience, it also means that drivers must rely more on visual cues like the speedometer to gauge their speed. Without the auditory feedback of an engine, drivers may need to adjust their awareness on the road to compensate for the silence of an electric vehicle.
When driving a Tesla, one of the most immediate quirks is figuring out how to shift into drive or reverse. Tesla’s minimalist design has eliminated traditional stalks from the steering wheel, requiring drivers to find alternative methods of shifting. Some Teslas offer beta software that automatically determines the gear needed based on surroundings, while others provide shift controls on the touchscreen or above the rearview mirror. While this change may take some getting used to, drivers can adapt to the new shifting methods with practice.
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