Electric

Electric car batteries typically last between eight and 15 years, depending on factors like usage, climate and driving habits. Manufacturers such as Audi, Honda, Mazda and Volkswagen offer warranties of eight years/100,000 miles on their electric vehicle (EV) batteries, ensuring peace of mind. Over time, battery capacity may slightly decrease, but modern EV batteries are designed to maintain performance for many years.​​

Electric cars are designed to last as long as traditional vehicles, typically 15 to 20 years or more, depending on maintenance and use. The lifespan of an electric vehicle (EV) is influenced by factors such as battery health, driving conditions and technology updates. Manufacturers like Audi, Honda, Mazda and Volkswagen build their EVs with durable components, and with proper care, they can provide reliable service for decades.​​

A hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) combines a traditional combustion engine with an electric motor to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. The electric motor assists the engine during acceleration and (in certain instances) powers the vehicle at low speeds or for short distances. HEVs automatically switch between power sources, optimising performance while lowering fuel consumption and environmental impact.​

Pure-electric cars offer numerous benefits, including zero harmful emissions, significantly reducing environmental impact. They provide a quiet, smooth driving experience with instant torque for quick acceleration. Electric vehicles (EVs) have lower operating costs due to electricity being cheaper than fuel, while fewer moving parts means reduced maintenance. Additionally, EVs are ULEZ/Clean Air Zone friendly, which means no associated charges.​

Electric car range is measured by the distance a vehicle can travel on a single full charge, typically assessed using WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure). This European testing programme simulates real-world driving conditions to estimate range, considering factors like speed, terrain and climate. Range can also vary depending on driving habits and environmental conditions.​

You certainly can! Here at Drift Bridge in Crawley, Croydon, Epsom and Walton-on-Thames, we provide easy online access to more than 100 electrified vehicles. This means you have a wide choice of high-quality 100% electric, plug-in hybrid and hybrid models, and not just those produced by Audi, Honda, Mazda and Volkswagen. We also feature electrified cars manufactured by non-franchised brands, such as Nissan, Renault and Tesla.​

Charging a fully electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle is easy thanks to the availability of domestic and public chargepoint solutions. Brands like Audi, Honda, Mazda and Volkswagen offer compatible charging solutions, making it convenient to charge your vehicle whether you're at home or on the go. For instance, at home, you can plug your car into a three-pin power source or a specially installed fast-charging wallbox.​

Plug-in hybrids, such as the Audi Q5 TFSI e and Volkswagen Passat GTE, combine a petrol engine with an electric motor, allowing short electric-only trips. They’re very fuel efficient and produce low CO₂ emissions. Fully electric vehicles, like the Honda e and Volkswagen ID.3, rely entirely on electric power, producing zero emissions while being very affordable to run.​

Yes, you can use a standard three-pin socket to charge vehicles like the Mazda CX-60 Plug in hybrid and all-electric Volkswagen e-Golf. However, a dedicated home charging station is recommended for faster, more efficient charging. Here at Drift Bridge, we can help you explore your home-charging options.​

Range varies by model. For example, the Audi Q4 e-tron offers up to 330 miles, while the Mazda MX-30 provides around 124 miles. Consider your driving habits to choose a model that best suits your range needs – and contact your local Drift Bridge dealership team for impartial advice.