{"id":1545,"date":"2026-05-22T10:50:00","date_gmt":"2026-05-22T10:50:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/in4ride.com\/?p=1545"},"modified":"2026-05-27T10:57:47","modified_gmt":"2026-05-27T10:57:47","slug":"why-electrified-cars-need-more-careful-driving","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/in4ride.com\/?p=1545","title":{"rendered":"WHY ELECTRIFIED CARS NEED MORE CAREFUL DRIVING"},"content":{"rendered":"\n\n
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Electric vehicle (EV) adoption in South Africa is experiencing remarkable growth. In 2024, there was a 60% increase in new energy vehicle (NEV) sales compared to the previous year. Naamsa reported that during the first quarter alone, NEV sales equalled nearly 40% of all sales during 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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BMW i5 M50.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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Alfa Romeo Junior Elettrica<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

This momentum carried into 2025: NEV sales for the first quarter of 2025 was up 14% compared to Q1 of 2024. PHEV sales surged 70.9% year-on-year in Q1 of 2025. It will likely surpass its 2024 record. Plug-in hybrids grew by 281% across 2025, and BEV sales increased by 65% year-on-year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Along with this surge in EV adoption, a new driving experience with its own unique safety considerations has developed. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, says: \u201cWhile there are several advantages to driving an EV, there are also distinct characteristics that can affect their safe operation on our roads.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cEVs cannot be driven in the same way as internal combustion engines (ICE). Differences in power delivery, braking systems, and vehicle dynamics mean techniques ideal for fuel vehicles can be challenging in EVs.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In particular, the delayed throttle response of petrol vehicles, does not exist in EVs. \u201cThere is higher risk of overcorrection in emergencies or loss of traction during quick overtakes. Treating your EV as \u2018just another car\u2019 significantly increases accident risk,\u201d says Herbert.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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GWM Ora 03<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

WHERE THE DIFFERENCE LIES<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Silence: while some simulate sound, other EVs are near-silent, especially at low speeds. It makes them virtually inaudible to pedestrians, cyclists, and other road users. People can easily and unexpectedly step into your path, more so in South Africa where many people are not accustomed to EVs. Be extra vigilant and anticipate that others may not be aware of your presence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Torque and acceleration<\/em><\/strong>: EVs deliver immediate, powerful acceleration thanks to instant torque from the electric motor. This requires adjustment, especially in wet or slippery conditions. The sudden power delivery can catch drivers off-guard, potentially leading to loss of traction. Smooth, measured throttle inputs are essential, particularly when pulling away from intersections, merging into traffic and around pedestrians.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Regenerative braking:<\/em><\/strong> this braking system immediately slows the vehicle as you lift off the accelerator, converting kinetic energy back into battery charge. It feels dramatically different to ICE vehicles and drivers behind you may not anticipate the sudden deceleration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Weight distribution and handling:<\/em><\/strong> EVs are typically heavier than ICE vehicles due to battery packs, usually mounted low in the chassis. The low centre of gravity improves handling and reduces rollover risk, but the additional weight affects braking distances and tyre wear. Be aware of this with tyre inflation and replacement and allow extra stopping distance, particularly if fully loaded.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Adapting driving style:<\/em><\/strong> transitioning to an EV requires a mindset shift. Familiarise yourself with your vehicle in a safe, controlled environment before venturing into heavy traffic. Ideally this should be with the guidance of a training programme like that offered by MasterDrive. Understanding these differences and adjusting driving accordingly helps ensure your electric driving experience is safe and that you get the full benefit of your EV.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

STORY COURTESY OF MASTERDRIVE<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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