Principles for Safe Driving of Electric Cars
Unlike most internal combustion engine vehicles controlled by a gearbox, driving an electric car is more flexible as it can be controlled using pedal braking, smartphone applications, or even autonomous driving mode. Therefore, for safe, battery-efficient, and optimized performance operation, drivers need to understand the unique principles when using this type of vehicle.
Driving an electric car
Electric car engines operate smoothly and produce minimal noise compared to gasoline cars. While this is an improvement for electric vehicles, it can also be inconvenient for those accustomed to driving based on engine sound and vibrations.
To overcome this, drivers should change their driving habits and rely less on sensory cues, instead focusing on the display information on the dashboard for precise actions and enhanced safety.
Firstly, electric motors have consistent torque within specific RPM ranges. Therefore, drivers should avoid sudden accelerations to ensure safety and prolong battery life.
Furthermore, the driving experience of electric cars is considered more flexible than that of gasoline cars. For example:
One-pedal driving: Drivers only need to press the start button, and the car will move according to pre-set settings. To decelerate or accelerate, drivers simply press or release the brake pedal.
App-integrated driving: Users install the manufacturer's app on their smartphone and connect it to the car's control system. This allows drivers to manage operational parameters, monitor battery status, charging, or adjust convenience features like entertainment systems or air conditioning.
Autonomous driving mode setup: For advanced technology-supported models, drivers can activate autonomous driving mode with preset programming that enables the electric car to drive autonomously, accelerate, and brake accurately in complex situations.
Principles for Safe Driving of Electric Cars
Regularly check battery status
The battery is the most crucial component in an electric vehicle, directly impacting its operation. Therefore, drivers need to monitor battery capacity and corresponding travel distances displayed on the control screen to avoid disruptions to their journey.
Additionally, to maximize battery usage efficiency, drivers should take note of weather conditions, usage frequency of features, and entertainment utilities, while also minimizing factors that contribute to electric car battery consumption.
Proactively seek suitable charging points for electric car batteries to ensure uninterrupted travel.
Driving an electric car using one pedal
Most modern electric cars are equipped with both regenerative braking and standard braking systems.
Among them, regenerative braking is the most advanced system, utilized in electric cars, hybrid electric vehicles, and some gasoline models. This system converts kinetic and thermal energy generated during braking into electrical energy to charge the battery. Not only does regenerative braking conserve energy, but it also reduces fuel consumption and minimizes wear and tear on the braking components, extending their lifespan.
Standard braking is the traditional braking system found in most gasoline cars. This type of braking consumes more fuel and wears out faster, resulting in shorter brake life. However, its production cost is considerably lower.
Under normal operating conditions, electric cars typically employ regenerative braking. While driving, releasing the brake pedal results in a smooth and efficient deceleration process. To accelerate, drivers gradually release the brake pedal until reaching the desired speed. This one-pedal driving technique provides an engaging driving experience, facilitating quicker and more effortless transitions between states compared to the traditional interaction between the brake and gas pedals in internal combustion engine cars.
