Decoding Your Electric Car’s Dashboard: Common Warning Lights Explained
Many drivers, while embracing electric vehicles (EVs), may find themselves puzzled by the array of warning lights on their dashboards. Unlike the familiar symbols of gasoline-powered cars, EVs use different drivetrains, introducing new icons that could potentially leave drivers confused and unprepared.
Steve Beattie, sales and marketing director at BYD UK, emphasizes the importance of understanding these symbols. He said that drivers who understand the meaning behind these warnings can significantly increase their safety and confidence behind the wheel. “As more people make the switch to electric vehicles, it’s really important that drivers feel confident with the new technology – and dashboard symbols are a big part of that. While familiar icons like the low battery light are easy to spot, others, like regenerative braking or power limit warnings, can leave people scratching their heads.”
A recent study commissioned by BYD, surveying 2,000 UK drivers, revealed that only 39 percent could correctly identify the low battery warning sign. This amber icon features the outline of a car battery with minus and plus symbols inside, plus two additional borders in the bottom left-hand corner. While EVs offer a range indicator, making it easy to monitor the remaining charge, this icon serves as a critical alert to prevent being stranded.
Another concern surfaced regarding the battery temperature warning light, where just 26 percent of drivers knew the meaning. This red warning sign displays a battery symbol behind a thermometer. While EVs typically use cooling systems to keep the battery below 30C, extreme heat can lead to overheating, reduce performance, and potentially damage the battery if left unaddressed.
Finally, the study uncovered that only 21 percent of drivers recognized the limited power warning sign. This amber icon presents a tortoise within a circle. This logo will typically appear when the car is in battery conservation mode – limiting performance to preserve range.
Understanding these dashboard indicators is essential for a smooth and safe transition to EV ownership. By taking the time to learn these new symbols, drivers can maintain control and ensure a worry-free driving experience.
