1. Regenerative braking saves wasted energy.

Every time you brake, particle pollutants are released into the air.  EVs have a brake setting known as regenerative or regen braking that cuts down on these pollutants. In regen braking the car uses the motor instead of using the brake pads to bring the vehicle to a stop, which helps to recharge the batteries as you drive. This system is better on your car’s brake pads and cuts down on the amount of particle pollutants associated with braking.

2. Nova Scotia’s grid is becoming cleaner every day.

An EVs dependence on electricity causes some to wonder if they are better for the environment than a gas-powered vehicle. Although not preferred, an electric vehicle powered on 100 per cent coal is cleaner than its gas-powered alternative.  Luckily, our growing commitment to renewable energy means Nova Scotia’s energy grid is becoming cleaner every day. By 2030, Nova Scotia is aiming to have 80 per cent renewable energy, making EVs an even more attractive choice.

3. EV batteries account for their own emissions within two years.

During the production of any vehicle, emissions are a by-product, and an EV is no exception. It’s true that there are emissions associated with the creation of EV batteries. However, on a typical 400 km range battery, these emissions are offset, within the first 18 months of driving, through fuel savings and other environmental benefits.

4. EVs reduce noise pollution.

EVs are famously quiet. Because they don’t have an internal combustion engine and therefore do not require as much power upon acceleration, EVs are not nearly as noisy as a gas-powered vehicle. This reduces noise pollution, especially in urban areas, leading to reduced background stress levels and driver fatigue.

5. Your EV can help power your home.

Did you know that some EVs can be used to power your home in the event of an outage? Put away the storm flashlights and gas-powered generators, and instead let your EV battery do the work! EVs with vehicle-to-load capabilities allow you to transfer power from your vehicle’s battery to your appliances and more.

Is an EV right for you? Why not test drive one with Next Ride. Feel the thrill of driving electric – book your test drive at Nextridens.com.

1: Find our branded tent (the one with the BIG Next Ride logo on it) and come on over.

Next Ride events take place all over Nova Scotia, from the Annapolis Valley to Cape Breton Island, so you can choose the location that works for you. Upon arrival, locate our tent and head on over to chat with one of our friendly staff. (They’re really, really, nice—we promise!)  

2: Sign in with one of our EV experts.

If you’ve booked a test drive slot ahead of time, or are hoping to snag one in the moment, one of our team will need to sign you in. We’ll check your driver’s license, explain our safety procedures and have you, and any passengers along for the ride, sign a waiver.

3: Check out your new ride.

Now the fun begins! One of our knowledgeable EV experts will walk you around the car, the e-bike or the truck if you’ve booked the F! You’ll learn where the charging points are, how to open the trunk and frunk (you’re curious we know), and facts about the vehicle you’re about to drive.

4: Get inside and settle in.

The last step before hitting the road is to sit in the car and go through the controls. We’ll show you how to start the car and talk to you through key features such as regenerative braking.  

5: It’s drive time!

The best part has arrived! Finally you get to feel the thrill of driving electric. You’ll embark behind the wheel on a 10-to-15-minute preplanned route with one of our team members.  This is a great time to ask questions and learn more about the electric vehicle you’re driving.

6:Tell your friends!

Did you enjoy your EV test drive experience with Next Ride? Tell your friends and family! They can find out about upcoming Next Ride events and sign up at the link below.