What are EVs like to drive?
What the LEXperts say
EVs offer a smooth, quiet, and responsive drive – but there are some key differences compared to petrol vehicles. From instant acceleration and regenerative braking to how heating affects range, understanding these changes can help you adapt quickly.
When getting behind the wheel for the first time, you’ll perhaps be surprised by the vehicle’s quiet operation: there is little to no engine sound and in most EVs the dashboard will light up, displaying a range indicator, rather than a fuel gauge.
Also noticeable is the roomier, more flexible cabin layout. EVs have a simplified transmission, which takes up less space, and is responsible for the vehicle’s brisk acceleration. Often, Eco or City modes are available to make urban driving easier.
Most fully electric vehicles have one forward and one reverse gear, like automatic petrol cars. This is because their drivetrains don't need gearboxes.
Regenerative braking
Another useful feature to be aware of is regenerative braking, which recaptures energy when slowing down and sends a charge back to the car's battery.
Each braking event returns a small amount of energy. Over time, especially in stop-start traffic, this can make a noticeable difference. It also helps reduce wear on your brake pads. If you have the option of turning it off or on, we recommend you leave it on, thereby benefitting from the extra battery boost.
Heating EVs
Another significant difference between traditional cars and EVs is the energy cost of heating them. In traditional vehicles, the combustion chamber and pistons generate a lot of waste heat as a by-product. Whilst this inefficiency isn’t great for fuel economy, it does provide warmth to the vehicle interior.
EVs are much more efficient and instead generate heat by drawing power directly from the main battery. This means that in cold weather, it's advisable to preheat your vehicle while it is plugged in, thus preserving the battery's charge. In many EVs, heated seats and steering wheels provide additional comfort and are more energy efficient than using hot air to heat the whole interior.
A modern solution
Combined, the forward-thinking design and energy efficiency of EVs make them well suited to the demands of modern life, easily transitioning between work and personal use. From weekday commutes and client visits to weekend errands and family trips, they are a versatile choice for everyday mobility.
As with any vehicle, its worth test driving an EV before committing to purchase, to ensure the driving style suits your needs and preferences.
Article published August 2025