Are you looking for your next vehicle? Hybrids and EVs have probably caught your eye, especially with the increasing number of new releases available here in the Bay Area. While electric vehicles look just like their ICE counterparts, the way they operate is actually much different. From acceleration to braking, EVs feel much different than what you may be used to. Here are a few other things you should be aware of before you get behind the wheel of an EV or hybrid.
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Acceleration
When you press your foot on the pedal, each vehicle responds a bit differently. EVs may surprise you, though, with their instant torque. The immediate response can be a bit of a shock to first-time EV drivers, so be prepared to ease in slowly. Keep in mind that taking advantage of the thrill of instant torque can quickly eat away at your battery and mile range.
Braking
Hitting the brakes also works the same as the types of vehicles you’re used to driving, but there’s one aspect that doesn’t: regenerative braking. Electric vehicles utilize regenerative braking to increase efficiency without even hitting the brakes. The way it works is simple: the electric motor or motors reverse, slowing the vehicle while using kinetic energy to send a bit of energy back to the battery. Be prepared for the vehicle to slow down more than usual when you take your foot off the accelerator.
Drive Modes
Hybrids offer many of the benefits of both gas-powered and electric with even more perks. Many hybrid electric vehicles have different drive modes, allowing you to customize your drive. Headed to the grocery store down the road? Put your hybrid in EV mode for zero fuel use and zero emissions. Taking on your commute? Hybrid or other modes can maximize the electric motor while saving you some fuel along your trip. Try out all the drive modes during your test drive to get an idea about what different trips could feel like in different drive modes.
Test Drive Hybrid and Electric Vehicles in the Bay Area
There’s no substitute for trying something out for yourself, and you can test drive the wide selections of hybrid and electric vehicles available now at Carnamic! Visit any of our Bay Area locations to test drive an EV today or contact us to learn more.
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