There are many differences between electric vehicles (EVs) and cars with internal combustion engines (ICE). The driving experience, however, is often overlooked when comparing the two. This article reviews key benefits offered by EVs, from rapid acceleration and regenerative braking to quiet operation. It also discusses how heavy EV battery traction packs impact handling and highlights EV range and charging limitations.
Rapid acceleration and maximum torque
Unlike ICE vehicles, EVs have highly efficient electric motors that deliver maximum torque nearly instantaneously. Even EVs with modest power output excel in initial acceleration, outperforming ICE vehicles despite potentially lower top speeds. Most EVs also include simplified drivetrains that eliminate complex multi-speed transmissions with a single-speed reduction gear.
Some electric sports cars, such as the Porsche Taycan (Figure 1), may include a second gear to optimize performance across a broader range of higher speeds.
Consistent, high-output torque ensures smooth and responsive acceleration on highways and in start-and-stop traffic. The immediate availability of torque also helps prevent dangerous slowdowns and improves traction on inclines — effectively reducing wheel slip and hydroplaning risks in icy or slippery conditions.
One-pedal driving and regenerative braking
EVs offer a one-pedal driving experience, a unique feature enabled by electrical regenerative braking systems. When a driver lifts their foot off the accelerator, the electric motor automatically reverses direction, efficiently capturing kinetic energy and recharging the battery. Because EVs slow without braking, drivers can use the accelerator to start and stop in almost all traffic conditions. Importantly, regenerative braking systems are adjustable, allowing drivers to precisely calibrate deceleration levels.
Although EVs are also equipped with traditional friction brakes, these are typically reserved for sudden stops and challenging driving conditions. Often described as less resistant than their conventional counterparts, the tactile feel of EV brake pedals is caused by the simultaneous activation of regenerative and friction braking systems.
The weight of an EV battery
EVs are typically heavier than ICE vehicles, primarily due to large, high-voltage battery traction packs placed between the axles. These battery packs significantly increase EV weight, ranging, for example, from ~1,045 lbs for the Renault Twizy Urban 80 one-seater, ~5,412 lbs for the Tesla Model X, and ~9,440 lbs for the GMC Hummer EV SUV (Figure 2).
Although EV battery weight impacts acceleration, the instant torque provided by electric motors helps offset this limitation. Moreover, heavy battery traction packs placed at an EV’s base effectively lower the center of gravity and distribute weight more evenly across a larger area. This improves handling during cornering (balancing wider turns caused by an extended wheelbase), bolstering traction in slippery conditions and increasing stability at high speeds.
An EV’s lower center of gravity may cause some drivers to experience a “floating” sensation as the increased weight exerts additional pressure on suspension systems.
Silent operation and quiet electric motors
Quiet electric motors and the absence of exhaust systems eliminate engine revving, noisy mufflers, and loud idling. At speeds between 0 mph and 12.43 mph, for example, the Nissan Leaf is up to 20 dB quieter than ICE vehicles. As speeds increase to 21.75 mph and beyond, this difference narrows to less than 5 dB. Other sounds, however, may be amplified for some drivers, such as those caused by tires, wind, and suspension.
Additionally, the humming or whirring of electric motors might become more noticeable at lower speeds. Some EVs, such as the Genesis GV60, effectively dampen ambient noises, achieving an exceptionally quiet in-cabin experience.
Range and charging
EVs can typically drive half as far as gasoline-powered vehicles before requiring a recharge. Charge times vary from about 30 minutes for an 80% rapid charge to over 12 hours for a full charge using slower, home-based chargers.
Because gas stations far outnumber public charging points, home and work chargers are preferred for most EV drivers. This gap, however, is steadily closing in states like California, which boasts an impressive 41,384 public chargers (Figure 3).
To alleviate range anxiety, EV drivers should plan longer trips with apps such as EVgo, Electrify America, and PlugShare. EVs often surpass range estimates on city streets by maximizing the benefits of regenerative braking in start-and-stop traffic.
EV range is affected by many of the same factors that reduce ICE fuel efficiency, from uphill driving and heavy loads to rapid acceleration. However, extreme weather conditions impact EVs and ICE vehicles differently. Heaters in conventional cars, for example, consume minimal extra fuel, as engines typically produce excess heat as an operational byproduct. Without gasoline-powered engines, EVs must generate significantly more heat during wintertime, draining batteries and extending charging times.
To offset this limitation, many EVs include features such as heated seats and steering wheels while offering remote preconditioning (preheating) to conserve range in frigid temperatures. Hot climates also affect EVs significantly more than ICE vehicles, with a recent Recur study estimating an average range loss of 2.8% at 80° F (26.7° C), rising to 5% at 90° F (32.2° C) and 31% at 100° F (37.8° C).
Summary
With instantaneous torque, regenerative braking, and quiet electric motors, EVs deliver a unique and environmentally friendly driving experience. EV range, however, is typically only half that of gasoline-powered vehicles and can be further reduced by extreme heat or cold. Nevertheless, advancements in battery technology are expected to significantly extend EV range across all weather conditions while reducing charging times.
References
- How Is Driving An EV Different From Driving A Regular Car?, Recurrent Auto
- How Does The Driving Experience Of An EV Compare To An ICE Car?, Autotrader
- Same, But Different: What Does It Feel Like To Drive An EV?, RACV
- What Is It Like To Drive An EV?, US News
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