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How to test drive an electric car | 2024

Electric cars drive a little differently - here's what to look out for when you take your first test drive.

Last updated on 15 August 2024 | 0 min read

We’ve written a lot about electric cars, but they have to be experienced to be fully appreciated.
Getting behind the wheel of an electric car for the first time is an exciting step, but you’ll undoubtedly have questions if you’ve never driven one before. To help you answer them here we walk you through the process of test driving your first electric car, so you know what to look (and listen) for and can get the most out of your electric test drive.

Arranging your electric car test drive

Contact the seller via the Auto Trader advert to arrange your test drive. They’ll confirm the time, date and location of your test drive, and complete the necessary paperwork.
You’ll need to bring your driving licence as a minimum – ask the retailer whether you’ll need anything else. Most retailers will have insurance in place that covers you. Just note that, if you have an accident, you might be liable to pay an excess. Booking a test drive for an electric car is basically the same as a petrol or diesel, but if it’s your first test drive in a while (or ever) then this quick guide covers all the basics of arranging a test drive.
Taking a BMW electric car for a test drive

Taking the test drive

Driving an electric car isn’t too different to a petrol or diesel, so the test drive is still your opportunity to answer questions like is the car comfortable, does it meet your needs, does it feel right for you?
That said, electric cars do offer a new experience. Here are some of the things to look out for when you’re test driving one.

Futuristic cabins

Take a bit of time to explore the car’s controls and tech – electric cars have some fantastic features including touch-screens, next-gen audio, and built-in infotainment apps.
Many electric cars have more cabin space due to the lack of a traditional engine and transmission tunnel. They often come with advanced technology and infotainment systems, so test the interface and connectivity and explore any electric-specific displays like energy usage, range, and charging status. Check whether the car has electric-only features like preconditioning (setting temperature before getting in) and how they work. Test how using heating or air conditioning affects the battery range.

Simple start-up and acceleration

One of the first things you’ll notice is that electric cars start up without the traditional engine roar. Many also start without a key, using a fob, card or even a phone app instead. It’s a new way of getting the car going, and it’s pretty easy to get used to.
You’ll also pick up on the lack of engine noise as you accelerate, but you might find yourself soothed by the hum of the electric motor. Take a deep breath, and get going.

Instant torque and response

Electric cars deliver instant power, providing rapid acceleration without delay. Unlike petrol/diesel cars, there's no gear shifting in an electric car, so acceleration is smooth and continuous.
Stepping on the accelerator gives you an immediate response, so go gently.

Automatic driving as standard

All electric cars are automatic, but it shouldn't take long to get used to keeping your left foot out of the way and your hand off the gearstick. Best stay off busy roads while you get used to it, though.

Regenerative braking

When you lift off the accelerator, the car slows down as it recaptures energy, reducing the need to use brakes and effectively slowing itself down. This regenerative braking system enhances efficiency and provides a smoother, controlled ride – all while topping your battery up.
How much regenerative braking effect you get varies between cars and can be affected by the driving mode you select. Ask the sales person to demonstrate how you select different levels. In the most extreme setting some electric cars have what’s called ‘one pedal driving’, where the regenerative effect is so strong the car can actually bring itself to a complete stop when you lift off the pedal. This can be surprising at first but, once you get used to it, makes stop-start traffic a cinch while also putting power back into the battery. Test the different levels of regenerative braking (if adjustable) to find your comfort zone.

Precise handling and agile performance

Take your car around corners to experience how a lower centre of gravity (courtesy of strategically placed battery packs) translates into improved handling, responsiveness, and precision.
Does this electric car suit your driving style? Different battery weights and configurations of motor and drive system will offer a different experience, so shop around to find the one that works for you.

Cabin comfort and noise

Electric vehicles (EVs) are much quieter due to the absence of a combustion engine. This may require getting used to, especially in terms of hearing road noise more clearly.
Take another minute to focus on the hushed cabin. What’s it like with the road noise and engine noise dialled down? Is the music clearer? How about your conversations? Are the seats comfy? Are the controls close enough? Explore your cabin on the road, when it’s safe and legal to do so.
Charging an electric car in public

Tip: keep an eye on battery health

As you cruise along, keep an eye on the estimated range displayed on the dashboard. This shows you roughly how far you can journey on a single charge. Will that estimated range get you where you need to go on an average trip?
If you’re test driving a second-hand electric car, comparing the estimated range to the actual range you get is a good indicator of battery health – the closer they are, the healthier the battery. And if you are test driving a used car, there are a couple of other areas to consider, which we cover in this quick guide.

Tip: try charging your car

As part of your test (maybe when you take it back) ask to see how the charging cable works. Is it easy enough for you to do? Is the car compatible with charging points in your area?
Remember to ask how much it costs to charge, how long that takes, and how often it needs doing. You can learn more about charging electric cars here.

Post-test drive:

Once you’ve finished you test drive, you’ll have all the usual things to consider, just make sure you’ve thought about the following too:
Review your charging options and consider the practicality of charging the car at home, work, or public stations. Evaluate your running costs, factoring in the price of electricity, any grants, savings or tax incentives, and savings you could make with lower maintenance expenses compared to petrol/diesel cars. Also think about the vehicle's range and how it fits with your daily commute or long trips.
There’s a wealth of choice in today’s electric car market, so you will find the right one for you in time. Chat to the dealer about what you liked and didn’t like about your drive, and take it from there.
Test driving an electric car isn't merely about evaluating a new model – it's about immersing yourself in a new driving experience that's being shaped by innovation and sustainability. So, as you slip into the driver's seat, let go of the familiar and embrace the unknown – you’re at the start of a brand-new electric adventure. Find your electric car on Auto Trader with our new discovery tool.