Electric and hybrid car drivers feel less stressed behind the wheel compared to drivers of gasoline or diesel vehicles, according to a new survey conducted by the DS Automobiles division of Stellantis.
Of the surveyed drivers, 78% reported experiencing stress while driving. However, 38% of hybrid and electric vehicle owners said that their current cars make them feel less stressed than non-electric vehicles they had previously owned.
Among the features that respondents identified as most effective in reducing stress, 41% mentioned “quiet and refined driving.” While not the top choice, 52% of respondents cited a comfortable interior and seats as the most effective feature in stress reduction. Interestingly, this is a characteristic exclusive to electric vehicles, regardless of whether you are on either side of the Atlantic.
The lack of engine noise in electric cars (and hybrids in electric mode) makes a significant difference compared to internal combustion vehicles.
Electric vehicles need to generate some noise at low speeds to comply with the so-called “quiet car” rules. However, as we have stated for years, the quiet and vibration-free nature of electric vehicles simply makes them more enjoyable and less stressful to drive.
Several new electric vehicles, from the Porsche Taycan to the Ford Mach-E and Lightning, simulate engine noise in the cabin. Fortunately, this feature can be turned off.
Range anxiety used to be widely cited as a source of stress when driving an EV, but as we have repeatedly emphasized, it is exaggerated. Simply owning an electric vehicle and getting accustomed to the daily charging ritual will make it a non-issue for the majority of drivers.
