Here’s a quick overview of the key differences and quirks.
There’s no traditional ignition in an electric car. Many models wake up as soon as you get in and press the brake. Some still have a start button, which mainly brings the infotainment system to life.
Most EVs use a single‑speed gearbox. So no 1 to 5 — just Drive, Reverse, Neutral and Park.
D - Drive B - Increased regeneration (less common) N - Neutral R - Reverse P - Park
Electric motors deliver power immediately. In practice: very quick pull‑away, instant shove and a distinctly lively feel.
Lift off the accelerator and the car slows itself while feeding energy back into the battery. Many EVs let you adjust how strong this effect is.
Gentle regen: Feels more like a petrol or diesel car coasting.
Strong regen: You can mostly drive without touching the brake pedal.
Note: If the battery is full, regeneration may be limited.
Because EVs are so quiet, judging speed can be tricky at first — especially in town.
Tip: Keep a close eye on the speedometer until it becomes second nature.
Here’s the big difference: you plug in instead of filling up.
AC charging (alternating current): Typical at home or slower public chargers (e.g. a wallbox). Time: 4–10 hours, depending on power.
DC rapid charging (direct current): For quick top‑ups on the motorway. Time: 15–45 minutes (10–80%).
Household 3‑pin socket: Very slow — emergency use only.
Many drivers follow the rule: "If it’s parked, it’s charging." Short top‑ups are often more effective than waiting for a full 100%.
Plugs and cablesCharging apps (e.g. Zapmap, PlugShare, ChargeMap) show locations, prices and availability.
RFID cards and accounts (e.g. Octopus Electroverse, Shell Recharge, BP Pulse) are often simpler than paying each network separately.
Contactless payment: Many modern rapid chargers accept bank cards.
Where can I charge? Activating a charge pointDon’t block a charger longer than necessary.
At rapid chargers: Aim to charge to around 80% to keep queues moving.
If all bays are taken: wait considerately and don’t pressure anyone.
An EV’s range depends heavily on how and where you drive:
High motorway speeds cut range significantly (at 120 km/h you may see roughly 50–75% of WLTP range).
Cold weather can reduce range by up to 30%.
Regenerative braking and smooth, anticipatory driving improve efficiency.
Long trips need a touch of planning. Many EV sat‑navs add charging stops automatically. Alternatively, use an app such as A Better Routeplanner (ABRP) to plan charging breaks smartly.
How to plan a route?Drive moderately: most efficient around 80–100 km/h.
Use Eco mode: many cars offer an energy‑saving setting.
Pre‑heat or pre‑cool the cabin while still plugged in.
How do I increase the range of my electric car?The first few miles in an EV feel different — but you’ll soon relish the quiet, punchy, efficient drive. Plan your charging stops, get used to one‑pedal driving, and before long electric motoring will feel like second nature.
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