Oxford study reveals what drivers feel in EVs

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 25 Oct, 13:02 · Archive

A University of Oxford study found that high-performance electric cars evoke feelings of trust and control rather than just excitement.

A University of Oxford study, conducted by the university's SDG Impact Lab in collaboration with electric car manufacturer Polestar, has explored how drivers experience performance in high-performance electric vehicles beyond traditional metrics such as horsepower and acceleration.

The research involved 12 participants who drove two versions of the Polestar 4 - a rear-motor model and a dual-motor model with Performance pack - at the Gotland Ring circuit in Sweden under both calm and dynamic driving conditions. Researchers combined vehicle telemetry with heart-rate monitoring, eye tracking, psychological assessments and driver interviews.

The study found that performance in an EV is not just about excitement, but also about trust, control and intense focus. Drivers compared the experience to a 'controlled roller coaster', with one participant saying the car 'makes you feel like a better driver than you are'. The dual-motor with Performance pack scored higher for both performance and overall experience and was consistently associated with feelings of thrill, trust and control.

How it is being reported

• Oxford study reveals what drivers really feel in electric carsA new University of Oxford study focused on how drivers physically and emotionally respond to high-performance EVs.Oxfordshire Guardian · 25 Oct, 12:30
• Oxford study reveals what drivers really feel in electric carsA new University of Oxford study focused on how drivers physically and emotionally respond to high-performance EVs.Oxford Mail · 25 Oct, 12:30

In this story: University of Oxford · Polestar · Gotland Ring · Sweden

This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem