Test Driving Your First EV? Here Are 8 Things You Ought To Know!

EVs, or electric vehicles, are cars that rely on electricity to power their motors. There are a variety of EVs on the market today, from plug-in hybrids to all-electric models. EVs are efficient, environmentally friendly, and fun to drive. But before you go out and test drive one, there are some things you should know.

1) Where Will You Test Drive? –

Plan out a map for your test route, ensure it includes all forms of obstacles and gives you sufficient time to test the EV.

Do you want an EV that can take you long distances, or do you only need it for short commutes? Be sure to test drive a variety of EVs so you can find the perfect fit.

2) Test the Acceleration –

Electric cars have instant torque, which means they can accelerate much faster than gas cars. This can be a lot of fun but also take some getting used to. Be sure to drive carefully and not get too carried away.

Test how quickly the car can accelerate from a stop and how it handles hills. Is the car peppy enough for your needs? Test the acceleration on the highway.

3) Test the Brakes –

Since EVs are so efficient, they tend to have regenerative braking, which means the electric motor slows the car down while charging the battery. Be sure to test it out on your test drive.

4) Check Out the Infotainment System –

Most EVs come with an extensive infotainment system that controls everything from navigation to climate control. The infotainment systems are user-friendly and come with exciting features.

5) Silence –

Drivers of cars running on gas, get ready for some silence. Electric cars are much quieter than their gas counterparts. This can be a good or bad thing, depending on your preference.

6) Range Anxiety –

If you’re considering an EV, range anxiety is probably one of your biggest concerns. Be sure to test out the range of the car and see if it’s adequate for your needs. You should drive for at least half an hour on a full charge to test this out.

7) Maintenance Schedule and Cost –

Electric cars have far fewer moving parts than gas cars, requiring less maintenance. This can be a big selling point for EVs. Inquire about the maintenance schedule and cost before making your purchase.

8) Environmental Impact –

Of course, one of the most significant selling points of EVs is their environmental friendliness. If you’re way too concerned about your carbon footprint, an EV is the way to go.

EVs have come a long way in recent years, and there are now more models and makes than ever to choose from. You’ll also find that the cost of owning an EV has decreased significantly in comparison to gas-powered vehicles.

And with concerns about climate change mounting, it’s never been a better time to switch to electric. So, what are you waiting for?

Browse our new and pre-owned inventory today and schedule your test drive at Cutter Mazda Waipahu, serving Waipahu, HI. Mazda has EVs launching this year so you can get in touch with us for more info. We can’t wait to help you go green!

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