Why Electric Vehicles are perfect for older drivers
Electric vehicles (EVs) have come a long way in the last few years. Their practicality and reliability, as well as lower fuel costs from using electricity instead of petrol or diesel and greater distance covered, are among the positives.
Likewise, the development in charging infrastructure across the country, growing public awareness, and grants from the SEAI are helping more people make the leap.
Older drivers will certainly benefit from getting an EV, with safety and ease of use being particularly appealing, especially for those looking for more comfort and accessibility.
The new Nissan LEAF brings many of these features, as well as its own unique qualities, to create a smooth driving experience for all. Here are a few reasons why it's appealing to all types of drivers.
Perfect for both short and long journeys
Many of our journeys are short trips, with the latest CSO statistics showing the average distance travelled by private car is 15.1 km.
The range of EVs has increased significantly thanks to innovations in smart battery technology, aerodynamic design, regenerative braking, and intelligent route planning.
EVs are now capable of longer car journeys, where range anxiety is a thing of the past. The Nissan LEAF has a top range of 622 km, ensuring all your needs are covered.
Combine that with rapid charging when you’re out and about - thanks to the improved charging infrastructure set up across the country - and overnight charging at home, you can keep your EV topped up without having to worry about fuel.
It also supports fast charging, giving you a range of 420 km in just 30 minutes of DC fast charging.
When on the road, the car comes with NissanConnect, which offers a range of features both in the car and via the smartphone, and has Google services built in.
One such example is Google Maps paired with an in-Car Route Planner, which factors in ideal charging spots along your route based on your location, battery level, and availability.
The driving experience is smooth and comes with extra features
EVs are now on par with regular cars in terms of comfort and also offer innovative features, such as driver assistance and cruise control.
The Nissan LEAF, in particular, is designed to accommodate all walks of life, whether modern families, commuters, or those looking for their next adventure. Its interior features a dimming panoramic roof, enhanced headroom, and efficient thermal insulation.
It also offers 437 litres of boot space, allowing you to pack and bring equipment for whatever activities you do.
Drivers can avail of features like an improved ProPilot system, which lets them match the speed of traffic, including when it’s slow-moving, or stopping when it comes to a standstill.
With NissanConnect, you can use the Google Assistant for hands-free control. Through it, you can use its navigation features, listen to music, check for updates and more.
You can warm or cool your car before you get into it
Drivers don't have to be in the car to control them. Modern EVs come with an app that lets you view your car’s stats and operate it remotely.
NissanConnect allows you to do all these actions and more. Through it, you can warm or cool your car remotely, ensuring it’s at the right temperature when you get in. Perfect for those bitingly cold days or sweltering summer afternoons.
You can lock and unlock your car remotely, or schedule or launch charging, without getting off your couch.
Perhaps the handiest feature is the ability to see your car’s location, which is especially useful if you’re in a large car park and forget where you left it.
A useful feature of EVs is that the app provides an overview of the car’s health. That way, you know if your vehicle needs to be serviced. And battery warranties ensure you're covered if it needs to be replaced.
Improved safety features for every aspect of driving
Alongside better fueling and accessibility features, EVs also include a suite of safety features to ensure drivers are prepared. Sensors, monitors, and blind-spot warnings work together to ensure all driving stages are relaxing.
Some EVs go even further, such as the Nissan LEAF’s ProPilot with Navi-Link, which helps determine whether your car should speed up, slow down, stop or restart at the pace of traffic.
The car also comes with ProPilot Assist, its semi-automonous, advanced driver assistance system, with other driver assistance features ranging from Intelligent Emergency Braking and Blind Spot Intervention to Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Lane Keep Assist.
Not to mention its e-Pedal system, which lets you accelerate, decelerate, and brake with a single pedal, giving you better control on the road, whether uphill, downhill, or on winding roads.
It also uses its in-car route planner to anticipate curves and roundabouts, ensuring you’re always prepared to act accordingly.
And for parking, it comes with a 3D Around View Monitor, which, combined with its Invisible Hood View and Front Wide View, makes parking and navigating tight spaces a breeze.
Best of all, there are two models available in four grades. The 52kWh model starts at €34,995 with a range of 436 km while the 75kWh battery option starts at €39,995 and can go as far as 622 km on a single charge.
To register your interest in the new Nissan LEAF, visit Nissan for more
