Four fun EVs to ease the switch for petrolheads – but expert warns of two hurdles brands face despite government grant

Scottish Sun

4 days ago

Brands are working on making "EVs more exciting and appealing to enthusiasts"
PLUGGED IN Four fun EVs to ease the switch for petrolheads – but expert warns of two hurdles brands face despite government grant
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THE FUTURE is undoubtedly electric, as manufacturers steadily shift their focus from petrol-powered motors to electric ones.
However, it's perfectly understandable that many car enthusiasts aren't quite ready to embrace this change.
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EVs don't need to be boring, with a good handful of models aimed at putting the fun in driving
Credit: Hyundai
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The all electric Hyundai Ioniq 5 N became the first EV to win the Auto Express Performance Car of the Year award last year
Credit: Hyundai
The absence of traditional driving traits, such as the sound, vibration and gear changes associated with internal combustion engine cars is widely regarded as a pretty big loss.
But in an interview with EVPowered last year, former Top Gear host James May implored enthusiasts to give electric power a chance, adding: 'If you're a true car enthusiast, you have to take an interest in the future of the car.'
Change is hard though, and manufacturers face a tricky few years helping drivers - from petrolheads to casual fans - make the transition.
It's something Steve Walker, Head of Digital Content at Auto Express, told Sun Motors in a recent exclusive chat.
He said: 'The evolution of performance EVs faces two main challenges.
'Firstly, EVs are inherently heavy due to their batteries, which works against them being as nimble and fun to drive as petrol cars.
'Secondly, enthusiasts tend to love cars partly because they've formed a deep emotional connection to the history and heritage of performance brands and their cars over the years.
'EVs are a real break from this past. They don't have the same authenticity and don't offer the same sounds and sensations that petrol cars do. This makes them less appealing initially.
'That said, manufacturers know they need to engage enthusiasts. These are the people who are willing to pay for premium and performance models.
'They're also the people who help generate the culture and interest around car brands through their passion for the cars, bringing the brand's products to a wider audience.
Alpine A290 GTS delivers a hot hatch EV that comes with F1-style 'overtake button'
'So, manufacturers are working on creating EVs that feel better to drive and more connected to that heritage.
'We're already seeing features like simulated engine noises and artificial 'manual gear changes' in performance EVs to mimic that petrol car driving experience.
'Looking ahead, technologies such as lighter solid-state batteries and in-wheel electric motors could reduce weight and improve driving dynamics, helping EVs become more exciting and appealing to enthusiasts.'
CHARGING UP
Something that might sway some drivers - petrolheads or otherwise - is the introduction of the Electric Car Grant by the government that was announced earlier this week.
It sees £650 million set aside for drivers to enjoy a discount of up to £3,750 taken off the price of EVs priced under £37,000.
That funding, planned to run until the 2028-29 financial year, also only counts towards models from brands that have committed to a so-called Science-Based Target (SBT) for emissions.
Fewer than 50 new EV models would qualify for the grant, providing they meet the required criteria.
Among them is the super-fun Alpine A290, starting at £33,000 for the base model, as well as the Abarth 600e - specifically, the 237bhp base model, which just fits within the grant threshold - and the Mini JCW Electric with its 255bhp.
Walker said: 'While performance car fans aren't likely to be as excited about EVs as company car drivers or family buyers, who are often more focused on costs or practicality, there are a few current models that deserve to grab enthusiasts' interest.
'The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N is a prime example - it was actually the first EV to win the Auto Express Performance Car of the Year award in 2024, marking it as a real pioneer of fun electric cars.
'Another interesting option is the Alpine A290, but overall, fun EVs are still very much in their infancy and quite rare compared to petrol alternatives, which remain fundamentally better at delivering the traditional thrills that enthusiasts crave.'
MAKING THE SWITCH
Switching from a petrol-powered car to an EV can feel like a daunting step for some.
The challenge for the industry is to make EVs with emotional appeal
Steve Walker, Auto Express
However, Walker offers valuable advice for those ready to take the leap into the world of electric cars.
'For enthusiasts making the switch, it's important to recognise that EVs today are different beasts - heavier and quieter, with driving sensations that don't replicate the petrol experience,' he said.
'They're also fast, with an immediate power delivery that most petrol models can't match.
'As the technology improves, expect EVs to become more engaging and responsive.
'Manufacturers still need 'halo' cars that generate interest and showcase innovation. As the legislation stands in Europe, these will have to be EVs.
'Ultimately, without enthusiasts, cars risk becoming just another consumer product like a phone or washing machine.
'The challenge for the industry is to make EVs with emotional appeal through which drivers can express their personality and passion, just as petrol cars have done for decades.'