How to Drive an Electric Car Correctly and Safely for Beginners
Nowadays, many automotive manufacturers have launched various models of electric cars in the market.
Electric cars are quite easy to find on the streets, especially the streets of the capital city. Although some Indonesians already own an electric car, there are still many who do not understand how to drive an electric car properly. Here are some tips and tricks!
How to Drive an Electric Car
Just like other cars, electric cars are relatively easy to drive. The following are the steps that must be considered when driving an electric car.
1. Pressing the Start-Stop Button to Switch on the Engine
Before driving, of course, the driver needs to switch on the car engine first. How to start an electric car is very easy, namely pressing the start-stop button while pressing the brake pedal.
When the button is pressed, the digital screen on the car will light up. Please note that electric car engines do not make noise or vibrations. So when the digital screen lights up, the electric car is ready to use.
2. Release the Handbrake or Brake Switch Button
Before moving the transmission and driving, vehicle owners need to release the handbrake first. The trick is to lower the handbrake lever, or by pressing the electric parking brake button. However, keep in mind that the brake pedal must still be pressed when doing this so that the car does not move.
3. Shift the Transmission to Position D
After releasing the handbrake and all parameters are in place, the driver is ready to drive. Shift the transmission lever to position D, or press the transmission button in position D to get the car moving.
4. Be Careful when Stepping on the Gas Pedal
When driving an electric car, the driver must be careful. Electric cars do not have a transmission ratio, so the acceleration is instant and can run fast in one step. Press the gas pedal slowly to be safer when driving an electric car.
Tips for Using Electric Cars for Long Distances
Although the trend of electric cars is high, electric cars are still considered less practical for some people. One of the things that is disputed is the mileage of electric cars. In addition, electric car charging stations are still difficult to find in some areas. Electric cars also take half an hour or more to recharge.
Although considered impractical, electric cars can be a great vehicle when travelling long distances. Drivers should do a few things to make travelling with an electric car smoother and worry-free. Here are some tips.
1. Charge the Battery Fully
Although electric cars are recommended to charge the battery to a maximum of 80% for durability, drivers should charge the battery to 100%. This is done to benefit from the full range when needed. Charging the battery to 100% capacity a few times a year will not have a major effect on battery life.
To charge an electric car, one safe way is to charge it with slow charging at home. The high current and temperature generated through fast charging will usually make the battery life slightly lower.
2. Pay Attention to Driving Style
The way you drive is also a factor in the battery life of an electric car. Electric cars are fun to drive at lower revs, but this can cause the battery to become more wasteful.
Also, when braking, use a regenerative braking system. This system allows the energy generated during braking to be transferred and used as energy for the battery.
The choice of driving mode is also important for the durability of the electric car battery during long journeys. Use the ECO driving mode to save battery life.
3. Prepare Routes and Journey Management
Before travelling with an electric car, it is better to prepare the route that will be travelled. Check the distance and road conditions to be travelled. Drivers can also use the navigation system integrated in the car to choose an energy-efficient route.
4. Check the Vehicle Condition and Devices on the Electric Car
Before travelling, it is better to check the condition of the electric car first. Check the tyre air pressure, the condition of the car battery, and the supporting devices available in the car. Thus, the journey will be safer and more comfortable without any problems.