Making the Most of an EV Test Drive: Electric Vehicle Test Drive Guide
If you’ve already test-driven gas cars, you know how to evaluate comfort, handling, and features. But an electric vehicle (EV) changes things a bit. Here’s how to make your EV test drive count, focusing on what’s different.
Before You Go: Prep for an Electric Experience
- Call the dealership and make sure that the EV you want to test drive is charged and ready to go.
- Consider how you will charge your EV, public charging, work charging or home? Research the options and find out what’s right for you.
- Research real-world range reports cold weather, highway speeds, and hilly terrain affect EVs differently than gas cars.
- Learn the battery warranty details this is your “engine” now, so longevity matters. Most EVs will have an 8 year, 100,000 mile warranty as is required by federal law.
On the Drive: EV-Specific Things to Test
- Instant Torque & Acceleration
- EVs deliver power immediately, with no gear shifts. Try both city speeds and highway merging to feel the difference.
- Regenerative Braking Settings
- EVs often have adjustable “regen” braking. Test different modes: light regen vs. one-pedal driving. See what feels natural.
- Range Estimates vs. Reality
- Start the drive with a full or known charge percentage. Comparing the car’s predicted range with how it changes after the test drives some cars are more accurate than others.
- Driving Modes & Efficiency
- Switch between Eco, Normal, and Sport modes (if available). Watch how range and responsiveness change.
- Cabin Noise & Ride Feel
- With no engine noise, other sounds become more noticeable. Listen for wind or road noise you might miss in a gas car.
- Charging Port Location & Ease of Use
- Check if the charge port is easy to access in your driveway or garage layout. A bad placement could be a daily headache.
- Infotainment & Energy Displays
- EVs often integrate energy use, charging data, and trip efficiency into the dash or screen. Explore these features while driving and parked.
After the Drive: Beyond the Wheel
- Review Vehicle & Charging Incentives, Massachusetts & your municipal light plant may have incentives available for the purchase or lease of your vehicle. Charging incentives may also be available, be sure to review incentives to get the best deal on your vehicle.
- Ask about charging infrastructure: Does the car’s navigation show real-time charger locations or availability?
- Check software update policies: Many EVs improve features via over-the-air updates.
- If you plan home charging: Get estimates for Level 2 installation costs and incentives now, before you buy.
Quick Checklist for EV Test Drives
- Test acceleration at different speeds
- Try all regenerative braking settings
- Monitor range before/after drive
- Drive in Eco vs. Sport modes
- Listen to cabin and road noise
- Check charge port location & ease of plugging in
- Explore energy and trip data screens
- Ask about charging & incentives.
Have questions about EVs or charging? As our EV specialists! Contact Us