EVs are finally here to stay in India. We counted no less than 17 EV models on sale in India in 2021 and no, we are not talking about Tesla, for a change. Of the 17, at least 7 are budget EVs like Tata Nexon, and Tigor, Mahindra E20, and MG ZS EV. Driving an EV isn´t particularly difficult, after all, it´s pretty much automatic transmission. But it does require minor changes in lifestyle, driving patterns and how you plan your commutes and road trips etc. It may seem like a chore right now, but that's only because one is so used to driving internal combustion engines. Which, if you think about it, also requires planning, if only to ensure that the fuel tank is full. Check out how owning an EV will require a few changes in your driving habits.
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Practice Driving Without Using Gears
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One of the major differences between a conventional and an electric vehicle is the lack of a gearbox. In a convention vehicle, the internal combustion engine generates power and torque at different revolutions per minute (RPM) and to attain that process, a gearbox is required. This gearbox will then transfer power to the driven wheels with its various gear ratios.
An EV doesn't use the combustion method to develop power and produces maximum torque at zero RPM. The motors in EVs can rev up to 20,000 RPM because of a very large RPM range. With instant torque, the EVs do not mate with multiple gears. Only a single-speed transmission is required for an EV to regulate the balance between acceleration and top speed. So once you start the motor, you need to push a button or turn a dial to select ‘D' to move forward and ‘R' to reverse and ‘P' to park. You no longer have to change the gears, even to reverse! Simply get used to turn or push the drive selectors, press the pedal and you are good to go.
Get Used to the Regenerative Braking
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One of the key features of new-age EVs is regenerative braking. Simply put, when the vehicle slows down, the motor turns into a generator and recharges the battery. So, the feature will help you recoup about 10-20% of the charge on an average trip even when you are stuck in traffic. The aim of regenerative braking is to let the vehicle freewheel or decelerate as much as possible. That way, you can reserve the energy while braking. However, the vehicle will still slow down due to magnetic resistance in the motor while converting the kinetic energy into electricity in order to charge the battery. Hence, you must practice single-pedal driving as pressing on the accelerator will move the vehicle and releasing it would let it safely decelerate, using the brakes in a restricted manner.
Charge Your Vehicle
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EV owners do not have to visit a gas station to fill up. What you need to do is build a habit of charging your vehicle just like you would charge your mobile phone! Let's say your vehicle has a 300km range and you visit about 50km a day on average, so you need to charge your EV every four days. However, remember to charge your vehicle when it still has 30% battery juice left. Simply plug it in and let it charge overnight. Also, do not wait for the battery to drop below 15%.
Check for Routes that Offer Fast-Charging Stations
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So, if you are planning a road trip in your EV, or if you have to travel a lot in your EV, always map out the fast-charging stations that are available on the routes. The moment you see the battery strength is near 35-30%, look for a charging station and plugin. Wait till it reaches at least 80%.
Relax! There isn't much Maintenance!
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At present, although an EV comes with a higher price tag upfront, it will save you 50% on servicing and maintenance than conventional vehicles. EVs are not only a viable option but are also affordable to maintain in the long run. However, if the battery in an EV degenerates, then replacing it could burn a hole in your pocket! But with continuous improvement in battery technology, these concerns are constantly subsiding. The only time things remain similar between the EVs and conventional vehicles are when the tyres need to be changed.
Are you ready to buy an EV then?
