Heading to an electric vehicle dealership to take an EV out for a test drive can help them make informed decisions about which EV you’ll want to drive.
Everyone Should Try It At Least Once
Many drivers decide whether or not they like EV technology before ever getting behind the wheel.Investing in an EV can feel scary. Most people are used to buying and driving gas-powered vehicles, so that’s what feels familiar. Thankfully, many of the fears surrounding EV technology are unfounded, and a quick trip to an electric vehicle dealer is all it takes to put them to rest.
One-Pedal Driving Can Take Some Getting Used To
One-pedal driving refers to regenerative braking, a feature unique to EVs. While every electric vehicle has a brake pedal, most drivers won’t have to use it unless it’s an emergency. Instead, all it takes to slow down is easing off the “gas” or releasing the pedal to stop.
When drivers let up on the proverbial gas pedal, their EVs recover kinetic energy. That kinetic energy gets converted into electrical energy, adding some charge back to the battery. As a result, city driving actually improves range.
One-pedal driving takes some getting used to. However, once drivers have been behind the wheel for over a few minutes, they’re almost always won over. For those that aren’t, there’s always the option of turning the system off and using traditional braking.
Drive Modes Offer a Personalized Experience
EVs have different drive modes, allowing drivers to adjust their settings depending on the circumstances. Eco modes conserve power, while sports modes unleash an EV’s full performance at the expense of energy efficiency.
Normal modes provide a sweet spot between the two extremes. Some vehicles also have customizable drive modes, allowing drivers to fine-tune settings like throttle response, power output, and levels of regenerative braking.
The Silence Speaks Volumes
In the absence of internal combustion engines, electric vehicles are uniquely quiet. Most drivers love it, but it can throw people off at first if they don’t know to expect it.
Every model is a little different. Upscale EVs are usually especially quiet, while economy models may have more road noise even without engine sounds. In some EVs, drivers can hear the power inverter running, especially when stopped.
Not everyone likes a completely silent car. Many manufacturers make EVs that produce artificial sounds to accommodate drivers used to traditional cars. In most cases, they can be turned on and off at will.
When to Head to the Electric Vehicle Dealer
There’s no reason for car buyers to wait until they’re absolutely, 100% sure they’re ready to make the switch to EV technology to head to the electric vehicle dealer. Taking an EV out for a test drive can be an informative experience, even for those who know it’s not time yet.
Dealers know that many drivers are still on the fence about investing in electric vehicles. They’re always happy to answer questions and help drivers better understand options. If the best one isn’t an EV, that will be clear after a test drive and a conversation.
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