4 Differences Between Driving Regular Cars and Electric Cars

As you go through private driving lessons, one of the more important elements is getting a proper feel for the vehicle. Every vehicle feels different whether you drive a manual shift or an automatic shift, a truck or a sedan, or a gas-powered or electric car.

 

If you plan on driving an electric car once you complete traffic school, you will need to get used to many differences. Learn about the differences and what to expect before you hit the open road.

 

1. Startup Process

In a gas-powered vehicle, you likely anticipate hearing the roar of an engine and a slight vibration when the vehicle starts. This is not the case with an electric car. Typically, no keys are even necessary. Instead, a wireless fob will indicate you are inside the vehicle. With the press of a button, the car will turn on.

  

You may hear a slight startup sound, but the main indicator will be the panel in the center of the vehicle. In some cars, you have to lightly press the brake at the same time as you press the startup button. The process is quick and doesn't require spark plugs or traditional car parts to turn the engine over.

 

2. The Sounds

The minimal sound of an engine starting is not the only lack of sound when compared to traditional vehicles. Electric cars have virtually no sound to drive. If you're used to driving or riding in a gas-powered car, then the lack of sound may feel quite odd at first. The only sounds you will hear as you drive are the tires rolling and the wind pushing over the vehicle as you pick up speed.

 

In-car sound systems are the best way to get over the lack of sound. Play music or podcasts to help get used to the quiet of the vehicle. After a week or so of driving an electric vehicle, you can adapt to the sound quite quickly.

 

3. Regenerative Braking

While you drive on the road, steering and acceleration will feel similar, but one of the biggest changes comes with braking. As you drive the vehicle, simply letting go of the gas pedal will start the slowdown process. A light tap on the brake will activate the regenerative braking. The braking system uses the energy from the brakes to actually charge your vehicle's battery.

 

Your car will last longer with the braking. An electric vehicle's tires also have standard brake pads for faster brake options or emergency situations. As you learn how to drive an electric vehicle, you will need to get used to the brake functions. The brakes are a lot more sensitive with differences from a gas-powered car you will typically learn to drive on.

 

4. Electric Charging Stations

Going to the gas pump is a thing of the past with electric vehicles. While electric vehicles have a pretty long range, you should still be aware of electric vehicle charging station locations in your local area. In many cases, you will end up at a business where you plug your vehicle in for a charge. The stations are minimal when compared to traditional gas stations.

 

Fortunately, one of the main ways you will charge your vehicle is at home. Along with an electric vehicle, you can install a charging station in your garage or on the exterior of your home. Every day, you can leave with a full charge that is equal to a full tank of gas. 

 

No matter how an electric vehicle operates, the rules of the road remain the same. Learn everything you need to know about driving through our classes at Tricounty Driving School. Once you know the basic operations of a vehicle and how to navigate road life, you will have a much easier time transitioning to an electric vehicle.