Drivers of electric and hybrid cars are less stressed behind the wheel, according to new research

Drivers of electric and hybrid cars feel less stressed behind the wheel than drivers of petrol or diesel cars, according to research by DS Automobiles.

In a survey of 2,000 UK drivers, over 78% had experienced stress while driving during the month of May 2022. However, 38% of electric and hybrid car owners said they feel less stressed driving their electrified vehicle than they did their previous petrol or diesel cars.

This could be great news for road safety, as 31% of those who experience stress admitted that this negatively affects their driving ability. Stressed drivers are more likely to make rash decisions and pay less attention to potential hazards, making them more of a danger on the road.

Jules Tilstone, Managing Director of DS Automobiles UK, said: “At times, driving can be as stressful as it is enjoyable, but one of the many benefits of switching to electric is that it can help drivers feel more relaxed behind the wheel. Since 2019, DS has offered an electrified version of every model in our line-up, and from 2024 will only launch fully electric vehicles. Combined with French luxury savoir-faire and innovative technology, DS offers drivers a memorable, stress-free driving experience.”

It seems many drivers look for a relaxing driving environment intentionally, with 20 per cent of drivers saying that stress-reducing features are something they usually consider when looking for a new car.

• 41% of survey respondents listed a quiet and refined drive as one of the most effective features for reducing stress while driving. Electrified vehicles are by nature the best place to provide this type of environment.
• 52% and 34% of drivers respectively said ideal features for reducing stress are a comfortable interior and seats, and a smooth ride.

The study also revealed that over half (51 per cent) of drivers find the overall experience of buying and owning a car stressful to begin with.

DS Automobiles claims its car models are kitted out for a stress-free experience. It says its DS E-TENSE technology used in its electrified vehicles (available across the entire model range) helps deliver a calm and cosseting driving experience. The brand also advertises high quality seats of luxury upholstery, complete with massage functions. This is in addition to hazard perception technology, which scans the road ahead to monitor movements and adapt accordingly.

DS Autmobiles’ line-up includes the fully electric DS 3 CROSSBACK E-TENSE, which it says can travel up to 212 miles on a single charge (under WLTP testing) and benefits from the expertise of the multiple title winning DS Performance Formula E team. The company also offers plug-in hybrid versions of the DS 4, DS 7 CROSSBACK and DS 9, each capable of driving more than 30 miles on electric power alone (WLTP). From 2024, new models from the brand will be 100 per cent electric.