General information on electric drive

Updated 15/11/2023

A full electric vehicle runs like a normal car, but has certain functions that differ from a car with an internal combustion engine.

The driver display and centre display show some information that is unique to electric operation – charging information, distance to empty battery and the high voltage battery's state of charge.

For the car to function, the high voltage battery and associated electric drive systems must be at the correct operating temperature. Battery capacity may be reduced considerably if the battery is too cold or too hot. By preconditioning the car using the charging cable connected to the mains power circuit, the car's drive system and passenger compartment are prepared prior to departure, so that both wear and energy requirements while driving are reduced.

The high voltage battery that drives the electric motors is charged via a charging cable but can also be charged by means of smooth braking.

Important to know

Warning

Charging the car can affect the function of an implanted pacemaker or other medical equipment. People with an implanted pacemaker are recommended to consult a doctor before starting charging.

Car without power

Bear in mind that important functions such as the servo brakes and power steering are limited when the car is without power.

Warning

The brake servo only works when the car is running.

Exterior engine noise

Warning

Remember that the car does not emit any engine noise when it is only powered by an electric motor and may therefore be difficult to notice by children, pedestrians, cyclists and animals. This is especially true at low speeds, such as in car parks.

High-voltage current

Warning

Several components in the car work with high-voltage current that could be dangerous in the event of incorrect intervention. These components, and all orange-coloured cables, must only be handled by qualified personnel.

Do not touch anything that is not clearly described in the owner's manual.