Electric vehicles (EVs) are increasingly gaining traction in the market as people look for alternatives to traditional petrol and diesel cars. In today’s blog, we’ll dive into Amar’s personal experience, which involved buying an electric SUV. We’ll discuss everything from charging times, range, and service experiences to his reasons for opting for an EV, shedding light on what it’s really like to own and drive one.
Whether you’re thinking of switching to an electric vehicle or just curious about the technology, Amar’s experience offers valuable insights.
Why Switch to an Electric Vehicle?
Amar’s daily commute of around 150 kilometers was the primary motivator behind his decision to buy an EV. Previously, he owned a diesel car, but rising fuel costs pushed him to consider an electric alternative.
“With the increasing costs of diesel and petrol, I wanted something more economical for my daily 150 km drive.”
He shortlisted the Tata XUV400 and other cars like the Punch but ultimately decided that having just one EV would meet his needs. The XUV400 offered a range of up to 400 kilometers, which seemed sufficient for his daily commute without needing to stop frequently for charging.
Key Factors Behind the Purchase Decision
- Range: A 400 km range was more than enough for Amar’s needs, and the availability of charging stations made it a convenient option.
- Battery Chemistry: Amar acknowledged that the XUV400’s battery pack uses NMC chemistry, which offers a reasonable recharge cycle and safety features, though he also considered MG’s ZS EV.
- Road Presence: Another reason for opting for the XUV400 was its road presence and design, which felt modern and fit within his budget.
Related Read: If you’re still considering options, check out our detailed comparison of the Ola S1 Pro vs Ather 450X.
Real-World Driving Experience
Amar’s experience with the EV on long-distance trips showed impressive results. In one instance, he traveled around 380 kilometers with a fully loaded car and still had around 10% battery remaining, even after factoring in challenging conditions like rain.
Charging and Consumption
Charging the vehicle every night became a routine for Amar. Using a 3.3 kW charger, the EV was fully charged by morning. On days when he drove 130 to 150 km, he would consume around 30 to 35% of the battery. The car’s efficiency in eco and city modes played a significant role in helping Amar manage his daily commute without range anxiety.
Quick Tip: If you’re worried about the total cost of owning an EV, this guide on the total cost of EV ownership might come in handy.
Performance on the Road
Amar shared that driving the XUV400 between 80 and 90 km/h provided a smooth, efficient experience. The car’s range significantly decreased when driving more aggressively or at higher speeds, but even with more dynamic driving, he could still achieve 360 km.
“If you drive it lovingly at 80-90 km/h, it will easily clock 400 km.”
In sport mode, Amar noted that the car still delivered impressive power, and though there was a slight range trade-off, it provided a thrilling driving experience, especially when overtaking.
Handling and Comfort
One of the downsides Amar pointed out was the car’s headlights, which he described as below average. While the music system was praised for its quality, the headlights didn’t meet expectations, especially given the car’s price point.
The suspension also presented a mixed experience. While it generally offered a comfortable ride, Amar mentioned that certain potholes and road conditions produced rattling sounds from within the car. However, the vehicle’s ground clearance proved adequate, and it performed well on various terrains.
Charging Convenience and App Features
Amar expressed some dissatisfaction with the EV’s connectivity app. He missed certain features present in his previous car’s app, such as the ability to track charging history or limit the charge percentage. While the interface was user-friendly, he found that certain advanced features, like setting charging limits or monitoring battery analytics, were absent.
Final Thoughts and Conclusion
Amar’s experience highlights both the benefits and challenges of switching to an electric vehicle. From lower running costs and adequate range to the occasional hiccups with suspension and headlights, Amar’s story provides a balanced view of what to expect from an EV like the Tata XUV400.
Key Takeaways:
- Range Efficiency: When driven within a moderate speed range, EVs can meet most daily driving needs comfortably.
- Charging Routine: Overnight charging using standard home chargers can keep your EV ready for daily use.
- Tech Features: While convenient, some advanced app features are missing, which could be a dealbreaker for tech-savvy drivers.
As more people make the switch to EVs, the market will likely see advancements in both vehicle and app features. Amar’s story shows that while there are some limitations, the switch to electric can be worth it for those with a regular, predictable driving routine.
Interested in learning more about electric vehicles? Check out our other EV reviews and comparisons on EVGearReview.com to find the best electric scooter, car, or bike for you!
