Plug-in fun for everyone

ELECTRIC CARS: slow, tricky to drive and dull, right?

Wrong – as fast-growing numbers of converts to electric vehicles are discovering for themselves.

Most well-known motor manufacturers are now producing a wide range of exciting electric cars and there’s a model to suit everyone, whether you are in the market for a nippy runaround or a slick sports car.

For newcomers to the world of electric vehicles, the first surprise is how quiet they are to drive, with a refreshing absence of engine or exhaust noise.

The second big surprise however is just how exhilarating an electric car is, and the figures speak for themselves. From pure electric cars that are capable of up to 100 miles and range-extended cars (up to 200 miles) to plug-in hybrids (up to 700 miles), there is a vehicle that meets everyone’s needs.

Firmly in sports car territory, with 0-62mph coming up in a smooth, lightning-fast 7.6 seconds, are two plug-in hybrids, Volkswagen’s Golf GTE and Audi’s A3 Sportback E-tron, with handling to match.

Even more impressive in the speed stakes is BMW’s i8, clocking 0-62mph in a staggering 4.4 seconds.

All three exemplify the new breed of powerful, fun-to-drive electric cars, which are delivering impressive performance, instant acceleration and smooth constant power. It’s clear that these cars are ideal for negotiating urban environments – without the bruising maintenance bills and running costs.

For many converts it’s not just the refined performance that wins them over; it’s also the ease of driving. Pure electric vehicles, such as Renault’s ZOE, have no gearbox, meaning all the car’s torque and power is instantly available, and acceleration from a standstill is just, well, electric. Electric-car design is also refined, modern and elegant too.

The true high-performance nature of electric cars was dramatically underlined in London’s Battersea Park last year at the gripping Formula E Championship finale, an all-electric motor-racing series that returns this year. Once you’ve experienced the thrill of electric driving, there’s no turning back.

To find out more about electric cars go to goultralow.com