A user has switched to an electric car after more than 15 years. They do not want to drive a combustion engine anymore, and for a simple reason: the gasoline car suddenly feels uncomfortable and old-fashioned. An experience shared by many other users who have changed cars.
A user reports on Reddit that after over 15 years driving a combustion engine vehicle, they have switched to a fully electric vehicle. Until now, they had driven a 2011 Toyota Camry, a car that was never sold in Europe. Only the model series from 2019 made its way back to Europe.
The user mentions several points that excite them about their car:
- The quietness of the vehicle, the instantly available torque, and the relaxed driving experience surprised them.
- They are particularly excited about “one-pedal driving,” which initially seemed like a marketing gimmick but they have learned to appreciate it after just a few minutes.
- The morning “fully charged” car thanks to the home wall box is very convenient in everyday life. They no longer need to visit a gas station regularly.
Why can’t they switch back? After a brief return to a current combustion engine vehicle, their partner’s car, the noise, the jerking, and the slower reaction time of the combustion engine suddenly seem uncomfortable and old-fashioned.
How do other users react? Many users share similar moments, describing that especially the quiet, vibration-free driving, the comfort of charging at home, and the direct acceleration have made a lasting impression on them. Experiences shared by another user, who has acquired an electric car.
It is often reported that perceptions of combustion engine cars significantly deteriorate after a while in an electric car: noise, vibration, sluggishness, and constant refueling are seen as annoying or at least disadvantages.
Electric cars have shorter ranges and are on average significantly more expensive
Are there also disadvantages with electric cars? Many electric vehicles offer a shorter range than combustion engine cars, which becomes particularly relevant on longer trips and during winter. Additionally, charging usually takes longer than refueling at a gas station. As a result, longer breaks need to be planned when covering long distances with an electric car. However, this does not necessarily have to be a drawback if one wants to take an extended lunch break.
Another point that should not be underestimated: electric vehicles are generally much more expensive to purchase. The battery significantly increases the price of electric cars compared to combustion engines. Currently, there is no government incentive for buying an electric car, but a bonus for electric cars from January 2026 is under discussion (via adac.de).
Even electric cars are not completely environmentally friendly: the extraction and processing of raw materials for batteries (like lithium, cobalt) can cause significant environmental problems, even if the car itself is locally emission-free.
The Japanese dealer has abandoned its plan to fully commit to electric vehicles. Instead, they have set another goal: CO₂ neutrality. To achieve this, they want to rely on a healthy mix of different technologies for vehicles. This also includes combustion engines: One of the most reliable car brands has just admitted: electric cars are not the goal
