Electric vehicles (EVs) are transforming how we think about transportation, offering impressive performance and eco-friendly benefits. However, not all features added to these vehicles enhance their value or functionality.
Some upgrades are more about flair than function, and they can make the experience more complicated or costly. Let’s explore some EV features that might be more hype than help.
Overly Complicated Touchscreen Interfaces
Touchscreen interfaces in EVs aim to centralize controls, but sometimes they overcomplicate simple tasks. While it’s great to have a sleek digital dashboard, navigating through multiple menus to adjust the air conditioning or find a radio station can be frustrating.
These interfaces often prioritize aesthetics over practicality, leading to a disconnected driving experience. Drivers who prefer tactile buttons and knobs may find themselves distracted by the need to focus on a screen while driving.
Synthetic Engine Noise Generators
One of the joys of driving an EV is the quiet ride, yet some manufacturers add synthetic engine noise generators to mimic the sound of traditional combustion engines. This can detract from the serene experience that EVs naturally offer. While some argue that these sounds enhance safety, especially for pedestrians, others view them as an unnecessary layer of artificiality.
For many, the sound of silence is a key benefit of switching to electric, making this feature more of an annoyance than an asset.
Excessive Ambient Lighting Features
Ambient lighting can create a pleasant atmosphere inside a vehicle, but excessive lighting features can be distracting and unnecessary. When these lights become too flashy or bright, they might interfere with night driving and reduce visibility. Some drivers appreciate a bit of mood lighting, but when it transforms the cabin into a disco, it might be overkill.
Reddit discussions often highlight that simplicity is sometimes more desirable than high-tech gimmicks.
Frivolous Exterior Light Shows
Exterior light shows are becoming a popular feature in some high-end EV models, but they don’t add much value to the driving experience. These light displays can be entertaining, but they serve little practical purpose beyond attracting attention. For many, the novelty wears off quickly, and what remains is a feature that adds cost without enhancing the core benefits of the vehicle.
Additionally, there’s the risk of causing distractions on the road, which could lead to safety concerns.
Gourmet Coffee Makers
Having a gourmet coffee maker in your EV might sound luxurious, but it’s more a gimmick than a useful upgrade. While the convenience of brewing coffee on the go is appealing, it raises questions about practicality and safety.
Preparing coffee while driving can be distracting and could potentially lead to spills and accidents. Practical upgrades like enhanced safety features are often a better investment for most drivers.
Unnecessary Performance Modes
Many EVs come with various performance modes, but some are more about marketing than actual utility. Modes like “Ludicrous” or “Insane” are fun for showing off, but they often have limited real-world application beyond that initial thrill. These modes can also drain the battery faster, reducing the vehicle’s range and efficiency.
Given the focus on sustainability and efficiency in EVs, research suggests that balancing performance with practicality is more beneficial in the long run.