Common myths driving instructors might have about electric vehicles

Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming a bigger part of everyday driving. But with that growth comes plenty of questions, especially if you’re teaching others to drive.

Are they harder to spot? Do they run out of charge too quickly? And what happens if lots of people charge at once? Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common EV myths and what you need to know.

Are electric cars more dangerous than petrol or diesel cars?

Electric vehicles can feel different at first, especially because they’re quieter at low speeds. To help with this, newer EVs are fitted with an acoustic vehicle alert system (AVAS). This produces a sound when the vehicle is reversing or travelling slowly, helping pedestrians and cyclists stay aware. There isn’t clear evidence that EVs are involved in more accidents than petrol or diesel vehicles. As with any vehicle, safety depends on how it’s driven, road conditions and driver awareness.

For instructors, it’s worth helping learners understand:

• How quiet vehicles behave at low speeds
• The importance of checking surroundings carefully, especially in urban areas

Are electric cars slower than petrol or diesel cars?

Not in the way many people expect. Electric vehicles can feel quick off the mark because they deliver power instantly. That can make acceleration feel smoother and more responsive, particularly in town driving. Top speeds may be lower in some models, and many vehicles use limiters to protect battery range. In practice, this doesn’t affect everyday driving, especially when teaching learners to drive safely and within speed limits.

Can you only make short journeys in an electric car?

Range has improved significantly in recent years. Many modern EVs can travel well over 200 miles on a single charge, although real-world range will vary depending on:

• Driving style
• Weather conditions
• Use of heating or air conditioning

Most everyday journeys are relatively short, so EV range is often more than enough for typical driving lessons and local trips. For longer journeys, planning charging stops becomes part of the process, something instructors can build into lessons over time.

Can the UK’s energy grid cope with more EVs?

There’s a common concern that widespread EV charging could put pressure on the electricity network.

Energy providers have said that increased demand is expected, but manageable with planning and investment. Charging patterns, such as overnight charging and smart charging technology, also help spread demand more evenly. As infrastructure develops, the system is expected to adapt alongside growing EV use.

Are electric cars more expensive to run?

Upfront costs for EVs can be higher than petrol or diesel vehicles. Running costs can be lower in some cases, particularly when charging at home on off-peak tariffs. Maintenance may also be simpler, as electric vehicles have fewer moving parts. However, costs vary depending on factors such as:

• Electricity prices
• Charging habits
• Vehicle type and usage

It’s best to look at the overall cost of ownership, rather than just the purchase price or fuel costs alone.

Are there enough EV charging points?

The UK’s charging network is growing quickly, with new public charge points being added regularly. Availability can vary depending on location, and planning ahead is still important, especially for longer journeys or in rural areas. For driving instructors, this is a useful opportunity to help learners:

• Understand how and where to charge
• Plan routes with charging in mind
• Build confidence using new technology

What this means for driving instructors

Electric vehicles aren’t just a future trend, they’re already part of the roads your learners will use. Helping learners understand how EVs work can:

• Build confidence with new technology
• Prepare them for different types of vehicles
• Support safer, more informed driving decisions

The shift to electric doesn’t change the fundamentals of good driving. It simply adds a few new things to learn along the way.

Key takeaway

EVs bring some differences, but many of the concerns around them come down to unfamiliarity rather than fact. With the right understanding, they’re simply another type of vehicle and one your learners are increasingly likely to drive.