Tesla’s meteoric rise has put electric vehicles firmly in the forefront of the public’s imagination. These days, electric vehicles and charging stations (which were rare until recently) have become quite a common sight in American towns and cities. The electric vehicle revolution is well and truly underway! But are electric vehicles suitable for disabled drivers?
Millions of Americans have some type of disability and use a disabled parking permit to make getting around easier. Disabled drivers often have specific needs when it comes to the type of vehicle they drive. Many disabled drivers use vehicles that have been adapted in various ways. So can electric vehicles and disabled drivers be a good match?
As a disabled driver, you may have a lot of questions about electric vehicles. Are electric cars and vans suitable for disabled drivers? Can a disabled person drive an electric vehicle? What are the benefits of owning an electric vehicle for a disabled driver? Are electric vehicles worth it? Let’s answer these important questions now. Here is everything you need to know about electric vehicles.
What Are Electric Cars?
An electric vehicle is any vehicle that runs on electricity instead of gasoline or diesel. Electric cars, vans, and trucks are charged at charging points and store their electricity in rechargeable batteries. These batteries supply electricity to the motor, which powers the engine and all other features of the vehicle.
How Do Electric Cars Differ From Regular Cars?
Electric cars differ from regular cars in the fact that they run on electricity instead of fossil fuels such as gasoline or diesel. This means that electric vehicles are better for the environment than regular cars.
Are There Any Benefits Of Owning An Electric Car?
The benefits of owning an electric car are numerous. Electric vehicles:
- Are less harmful to the environment (electricity is a renewable resource but gasoline is not)
- Require less frequent maintenance and are generally cheaper to run
- Accelerate faster and feel lighter to drive
- Are smoother and more comfortable
- Are quieter than gas vehicles
- Have their own special highway lanes in some areas
Are Electric Vehicles Worth It?
Financially speaking, an electric vehicle can be a very worthwhile purchase. Electric cars:
- Are efficient and cost less per mile to drive a regular vehicle
- Run on a much cheaper form of energy than gas
- Require less maintenance than regular vehicles
- Qualify for a tax rebate from the federal government
Are There Electric Cars For Disabled Drivers?
There are plenty of electric vehicles for disabled drivers (as well as hybrid vehicles which run partly on electricity and partly on gas). Three good examples of suitable EVs are the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, the Chevrolet Bolt EV, and the Volkswagen e-Golf. All three of these electric vehicles have plenty of room and are a great option for wheelchair users.
Can A Disabled Person Drive An Electric Car?
Disabled people can drive electric vehicles. People with certain disabilities will need to have certain vehicle adaptations installed on their electric vehicle.
Some of the most common electric vehicle adaptations for disabled drivers are:
- Hand controls for driving
- Left foot accelerator
- Adaptive electronic controls
- Wheelchair lifts and ramps
- Pedal and steering wheel extensions
- Raised roof and dropped floors
- Transfer seats
- Reduced effort braking systems
What Are The Benefits Of Electric Cars For Disabled Drivers?
The benefits of electric vehicles for disabled drivers are:
- Electric vehicles are comfortable and perform very well
- Charging an electric vehicle is easy and convenient
- Electric vehicles are some of the safest vehicles on the market
- Electric vehicles are great for saving money – they are cheaper to run, cheaper to maintain, and qualify for a tax rebate
- Many electric vehicles have lots of storage space
- Electric vehicles can use High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes
Are Electric Cars A Good Option For Disabled Drivers?
All in all, an electric vehicle can be a great option for a disabled driver. Owning an electric vehicle is convenient and, in the long run, will save you money. Electric vehicles are safe, as well as being smooth and enjoyable to drive – and of course, they’re better for the environment. Overall, if they’re within your vehicle budget, they’re a great choice!
Featured image by Ernest Ojeh on Unsplash