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Driving an electric vehicle for the first time can feel exciting, but it can also take a little getting used to. EVs are quiet, quick to respond and packed with technology. For many drivers, the basic controls will feel familiar, but the way the vehicle moves, slows down and needs to be charged can be quite different from a petrol or diesel car.
The good news is that most drivers adapt quickly. With a bit of preparation and the right mindset, you can enjoy the benefits of electric driving while staying safe, confident and in control.
New EV drivers often notice how smooth and responsive the car feels. Because EVs accelerate quickly, even at low speeds, they can surprise drivers used to petrol or diesel vehicles.
Before setting off on a busy journey, spend a little time getting comfortable with the car. Adjust the seat, mirrors and steering wheel. Check where the main controls are, including the gear selector, parking brake, lights, wipers and charging information. If the vehicle has different driving modes, such as eco, normal or sport, start with the most balanced or economical setting until you feel more confident.
The aim is not to master everything at once. It is simply to avoid being distracted by unfamiliar controls while you are driving.
EVs can deliver power almost instantly. This makes them feel very easy to drive, but it also means you need to be careful with the accelerator. A light press can sometimes produce more movement than you expect, especially when pulling away from junctions, roundabouts or parking spaces.
Accelerate smoothly rather than suddenly. This improves control, keeps passengers comfortable and helps conserve battery.
If you are driving an EV for work, this is especially important. You may be switching between different vehicles, and each model can respond slightly differently. Take the first few minutes of each journey slowly so you can judge how the vehicle behaves.
Regenerative braking is one of the biggest differences between EVs and petrol or diesel vehicles. When you lift your foot off the accelerator, the car may slow down by itself while sending energy back into the battery. In some EVs, this slowing effect is mild. In others, it can feel quite strong.
Regenerative braking can make driving smoother and reduce how often you use the brake pedal. It may feel unusual at first, so practise in a quiet area to learn how quickly the car slows when you lift off the accelerator.
Regenerative braking does not replace normal braking. Use the brake pedal when needed, keep a safe distance and stay in full control.
Most first-time EV users worry about range at some point. This is normal, but good planning makes a big difference. Before a longer journey, check how much charge you have, how far you need to travel and where you can charge if needed.
Do not plan your journey based only on the maximum range shown by the vehicle. Real-world range can change depending on the weather, traffic, speed, road type and how much weight you are carrying. Motorway driving, cold weather and heavy use of heating or air conditioning can all reduce range.
It is sensible to leave a comfortable buffer rather than arriving with only a few miles left. If you are using public chargers, check their location, speed and availability before you travel. It is also worth having a backup charger in mind in case your first option is busy or out of service.
EV charging does not only affect the driver. Charging cables can cause problems for people walking nearby, especially if they trail across pavements or shared spaces. They can be a trip hazard for pedestrians and a serious obstacle for wheelchair users, people with prams and people with visual impairments.
Always position cables as safely as possible. Avoid running them across walkways where people may not expect them. If you charge on the street, check local rules before placing any cable across a public footpath. What seems like a small inconvenience to a driver can create a real risk for someone else.
Good EV awareness includes thinking about everyone who may be affected by where and how you charge.
Many EVs come with advanced driver-assistance features, such as lane support, adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, reversing cameras and automatic emergency braking. These systems can be helpful, but they are not a replacement for attention and judgement.
Take time to understand what each feature does and, just as importantly, what it does not do. Driver-assistance systems may not work well in poor weather, roadworks, faded lane markings or unusual traffic conditions. Keep your hands on the wheel, your eyes on the road and your attention on driving.
Touchscreens can also be distracting. Set your route, climate controls and charging preferences before you move off where possible. If you need to make changes during the journey, stop safely first or ask a passenger to help.
For new EV drivers, the key is not just learning how the vehicle works. It is also about developing good habits behind the wheel. This includes managing speed, avoiding distractions, planning ahead and understanding how your decisions affect other road users.
This is particularly important for people who drive as part of their job. Work drivers may face time pressure, unfamiliar routes, changing vehicles and long hours on the road. In these situations, awareness and safe decision-making are essential.
Employers can support safer driving by giving staff the right guidance and training. Providing drivers with accessible driver awareness training can help them recognise common risks, understand safer driving behaviours and reduce the chance of road incidents.
Electric vehicles are not difficult to drive, but they are different. First-time users should take those differences seriously and give themselves time to adjust. Get familiar with the controls, accelerate smoothly, understand regenerative braking and plan charging before longer trips.
Safe EV driving is about more than battery range. It is about staying aware, making calm decisions and respecting the needs of other road users. With a little preparation, first-time EV drivers can feel confident on the road and make the most of the benefits electric vehicles offer.
