Members put EVs to the test
RACQ has again given members considering the switch to EVs the chance to try before they buy.
Members were given an electric car driving experience at the RACQ EV Test Drive Days in September.
More than 250 members took the opportunity to drive a selection of the latest electric vehicles (EVs) over four days at the RACQ Mobility Centre at Mount Cotton.
Participants in the fully subscribed sessions had the opportunity to take at least three cars for laps of the Mobility Centre circuit which allowed them to get a feel for how EVs felt to drive in the safety of a closed track.
It followed the inaugural EV Test Drive Days in May and proved extremely popular with members who were grateful for the opportunity to get behind the wheel of 12 vehicles including Tesla Model 3, Polestar 2, BYD Atto 3, Kia EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 6, among others.
The feedback from participants was overwhelmingly favourable with the majority expressing a desire to buy an electric car soon.
An RACQ member ready to test drive a Tesla Model 3.
Trevor Williams, 72, said it was his first experience driving an EV and was seriously considering buying one to replace his wife’s Subaru Impreza.
“I think I am leaning a lot more towards buying an EV now,” Trevor said while taking his third car for a drive.
Trevor said rising fuel costs and environmental factors were behind his decision.
“Fuel costs are certainly starting to get up there and I think we have to do something to reduce our carbon emissions,” he said.
“Originally, I was very sceptical about electric cars and believed that the carbon footprint of electric vehicles was not that much different to the carbon footprint of ICE vehicles, considering all their manufacturing costs and environmental issues associated with the mining of lithium and everything else.
“But I think that’s changing and there's improvement. I am not an electric car guru by any means but from what I read, I think I am starting to change my mind about what’s good and what’s not good.”
The cars lined up for test driving.
Annie Campbell, 62, was also a first-time EV driver and tested three cars.
“My next vehicle certainly will be electric,” Annie said.
“The reason is probably more for environmental reasons, but I am also looking at the fact that at my age it will probably be my last car and in 20 years there could be issues with getting cars serviced and parts availability.
“And, certainly, the price of fuel is an aspect.”
RACQ staff volunteers at the EV Test Drive Days.
Annie said she appreciated having the opportunity to test drive a selection of cars at the EV Test Drive Days in a relaxed environment.
“It’s not like you are taking a test drive from a car yard where you feel pressured to consider buying,” she said.
“This is a really good opportunity to consider making the transition to EVs.”
Members were also able to learn more about EVs from RACQ experts and representatives of vehicle manufacturers.
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