Would You Learn to Drive in an Electric Vehicle

A recent survey created by Griderve, it was found that nearly half of learner drivers would prefer lessons in electric vehicles (EVs). However, only one in seven are able to find instructors with an EV.

Curious to find out how our audience felt about this subject, we took the question to Facebook.

It is fair to say that this sparked a lively discussion on whether learning to drive in an electric vehicle is a good idea.

Leaning to Drive in Electric Vehicles

Many supporters of electric vehicles believe they are the future of transportation.

Going through the many comments left on the topic, we found a number of positive arguments for EVs.

Steve A. was one such follower who was quick to point out that EVs use regenerative braking – helping the car to save energy by putting it back into the battery.

This feature also has the benefit of reducing wear and tear on the brakes, leading to lower maintenance costs. Steve also offered the idea that EVs are quieter, offering a more peaceful driving experience.

Toby W. argued that the UK's focus on manual transmissions is outdated. He mentioned that electric cars usually have fixed-speed drives, eliminating the need for gear shifts. This makes them simpler to drive, especially for learners who might find manual gearboxes intimidating.

Roger B., who drives both automatic and electric cars, appreciates the ease of driving EVs, describing them as similar to automatics but quieter. He finds that his automatic car with "flappy paddles" is more fun to drive than manual vehicles.

A viewpoint that suggests EVs could be an enjoyable option for many drivers.

Learning to Drive in Manual Vehicles

On the other side of the debate, many people prefer learning to drive in manual cars.

One of the primary arguments is the range of vehicles available to you. When learning to drive a manual car, you have the skills and knowledge to drive any type of vehicle.

Thus, you have more flexibility and a broader range of driving opportunities.

Along this line of thinking, Paul W. mentioned that he chose to learn in a manual car to have the freedom to drive all types of vehicles, not just automatics.

There is also the view from some that driving a manual car requires the user to engage in more actions, there for relies on more skill. Leading to a deeper understanding of driving mechanics.

Gary T. said that learning in a manual is more advantageous, especially since manual transmissions are still common in the UK. This view is supported by Cliff N., who suggested that those who prefer EVs might not be able to drive a manual car.

When it comes down to the feel of driving a manual transmission, there were many who felt they were more fun to drive.

Both Frank D. and Stephen T. explained that they enjoyed the experience of driving a manual car. Stephen finds driving a manual car more enjoyable because it requires more interaction with the vehicle.

Finding Common Ground

On a balanced note, there were those he could see both sides of the argument.

While the debate about EVs can at times be polarised, some commenters on our Facebook post were able to find common ground.

With some believing that learners can benefit from both manual and electric driving experiences. Depending on their preferences and career goals.

Steve A. suggested that learning to drive a manual car first offers several advantages. It equips drivers with a broader skill set, allowing them to operate a range of vehicles, including petrol, diesel, and manual transmission cars.

This broader experience can lead to increased confidence on the road, as well as the ability to drive in various conditions and environments.

Once drivers are comfortable with manual cars, they can then explore the benefits of electric vehicles without feeling restricted later down the line.

Bryn L. pointed out that the infrastructure for electric vehicles is not yet fully developed. An argument anyone interested in the future of EVs will see crop up often.

This can make it challenging for learners who wish to use EVs exclusively. He mentioned that charging an electric lorry requires the energy of a small village, indicating that large-scale adoption of EVs might still be some years away. By learning in a manual car, drivers can navigate the current infrastructure while waiting for EV technology to become more widely available.

The Social Question

All in all, the discussion which took place on our Facebook page revealed a range of opinions about learning to drive in an electric vehicle.

While EVs offer a simpler and more environmentally friendly driving experience, manual cars provide a broader skill set and greater versatility.

As the driving landscape changes, learner drivers and instructors must adapt. It’s crucial to ensure that driving education remains relevant and accessible, meeting the needs of a new generation of drivers while addressing the practicalities of a changing automotive landscape.

You can view the full range of the discussion by visiting our Facebook post here.