Electric vehicle drivers are facing confusion when it comes to interpreting symbols on their dashboards, potentially putting themselves at risk due to a lack of understanding. A recent study conducted by BYD UK surveyed 2,000 UK drivers to assess their knowledge of common EV dashboard icons. The results highlighted a significant knowledge gap among drivers, with only 39% being able to identify the low battery warning symbol. Recognising these dashboard warnings is crucial for ensuring driver safety and maintaining vehicle reliability as the adoption of electric vehicles continues to grow.
One of the least recognised EV dashboard symbols is the regenerative braking indicator, with just 13% of Brits able to identify it. This symbol typically appears as a circular arrow around a battery or a lightning bolt and signals that the car is using braking energy to recharge the battery, enhancing efficiency and extending driving range. Similarly, the serious electrical fault icon, identified by only 17% of drivers, is a critical warning indicating a major electrical issue that requires immediate attention, similar to a ‘check engine’ light in traditional petrol or diesel vehicles.
Another commonly misunderstood symbol is the limited power mode icon, recognised by just 21% of drivers, often displayed as a small tortoise symbol. This symbol indicates that the vehicle is conserving energy by restricting power output, usually due to low battery levels. Not recognising this symbol could lead to unexpected reductions in acceleration, particularly in demanding driving conditions like motorways or uphill roads. The battery temperature warning symbol, identified by 26% of drivers, alerts to an overheating battery which can impact performance and long-term battery health if not addressed promptly.
Despite its importance, the low battery warning symbol is only recognised by 39% of Brits. This symbol typically appears as a yellow or red battery outline with a low charge level or an exclamation mark inside, signalling the need for recharging. Sales and marketing director at BYD UK, Steve Beattie, emphasised the significance of drivers feeling confident with electric vehicle technology, stating that understanding dashboard symbols is a crucial aspect of this confidence-building process. As more individuals transition to electric vehicles, familiarity with these symbols becomes increasingly important for overall road safety.
The research conducted by BYD UK sheds light on a pressing issue faced by many electric vehicle drivers – the lack of awareness surrounding key dashboard symbols. It is essential for drivers to educate themselves on these symbols to ensure they can respond promptly and effectively to any warnings displayed on their dashboard. Failure to recognise and address these warnings could result in breakdowns, system failures, or compromised road safety. By familiarising themselves with these symbols, electric vehicle drivers can make informed decisions and optimise their driving experience while contributing to a safer road environment.