Electric Cars Cannot Be Driven Casually, Drivers Need to Adapt

SOLO, KOMPAS.com - The increasing use of electric cars in Indonesia is bringing major changes to driving patterns, particularly regarding the characteristics of acceleration and more advanced safety technology.

However, behind their sophistication, electric cars present new challenges due to their highly responsive acceleration.

Director of Training at Safety Defensive Consultant Indonesia (SDCI), Sony Susmana, states that understanding the vehicle’s characteristics is the key to safety, as no matter how advanced the technology, it will not be effective without awareness and vigilance while driving.

Sony explains that Sudden Unintended Acceleration (SUA) is a condition where the accelerator pedal is fully pressed unintentionally, causing the car to suddenly speed up and become difficult to control.

According to him, there are three main factors that trigger this incident.

Furthermore, he explains that modern electric cars with level 2 to 4 semi-autonomous technology are generally equipped with Emergency Auto Brake (EAB) features to help reduce collision risks.

“Usually, autonomous cars, especially levels 2–4, are equipped with EAB (Emergency Auto Brake), which automatically brakes when the sensor detects an object in front. Collisions might be avoided, but not to the point of being fatal,” said Sony.

Nevertheless, Sony warns that this technology is not yet fully perfect.

In certain conditions, sensors can experience interference or malfunction, especially if the driver relies too much on automatic features and is not quick to take control.

“These safety features are actually user-friendly for beginners or women, but unfortunately, they are not completely perfect or even malfunction,” said Sony.

Sony adds that electric cars have instant torque characteristics, meaning power is delivered directly as soon as the accelerator pedal is pressed slightly.

This makes the vehicle very responsive and potentially causes loss of control in a short time if the driver is not yet accustomed.

This step is important to understand the pedal sensitivity as well as the acceleration characteristics of electric cars.

“Electric car drivers, especially beginners, should do a five-minute orientation by driving slowly. This is intended so they can feel the pedal sensitivity and the acceleration of electric cars,” he said.

In addition, drivers also need to understand the vehicle’s response when the accelerator pedal is released, including the automatic regenerative braking effect.

Equally important, driving style must also be adjusted to the characteristics of electric cars. Sony reminds drivers to always apply defensive driving to minimise accident risks.

“Also apply defensive driving style that can minimise the risk of Sudden Unintended Acceleration (SUA),” said Sony.