The Challenges of Modern Electric Vehicles
With the rapid advancement of technology comes a new set of challenges, especially in the world of electric vehicles (EVs). Many EVs are designed with innovative features, such as key fobs and cards, which can sometimes create confusion among users. This learning curve is particularly noticeable when different models have varying methods for accessing the vehicle. One driver recently learned this the hard way when a valet struggled to properly open their car, resulting in some unsightly scratches.
While Tesla often dominates headlines, there are numerous other popular EV brands making waves in the market. One of these is Polestar, which is part of the third-largest EV company, according to industry reports. For Polestar owners and potential buyers, the r/Polestar subreddit serves as a valuable resource where tips and advice are shared regularly.
An EV owner recently posted a couple of photos showing noticeable scratches on their brand-new car. “Less than 1000 miles, and my door pillar is already scratched to hell by an overzealous valet,” they wrote. “Will these scratches buff out?” The images displayed small but visible scratches on the front door panel, highlighting the issue.
According to the instructions provided by both Polestar and Tesla, many models with key cards require the card to be tapped on a specific part of the car to unlock the door. However, on this particular model, the card needs to be tapped on the handle. While it’s understandable that the valet might have made this mistake, it’s concerning that they didn’t stop before causing damage.
Despite these occasional issues, electric vehicles remain a compelling choice for the environment. Research from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology found that a fully electric vehicle emits about 25% less carbon than a comparable hybrid car, which is already significantly less polluting than a traditional gas-powered vehicle. Carbon emissions and air pollution are major contributors to climate change, leading to increasingly destructive weather patterns.
Dealing with Scratches and Vandalism
In addition to accidental damage, EVs have also faced deliberate vandalism. Keyed cars and cut charging cables have become common problems for EV owners. When one Polestar owner shared their experience, other Redditors offered various solutions for dealing with the scratches.
One user suggested: “I would clean it up really well and apply some ceramic coating. I use Turtle Wax kind because of its easy application and how well the touch-up cleaner from Turtle Wax works with it.” Another person mentioned using Maguire’s polish every spring. A third commenter noted that the area in question is particularly prone to scratches, even from something as simple as a jacket zipper.
Tips for Maintaining Your Electric Vehicle
For those looking to protect their investment, regular maintenance and care are essential. Whether it’s applying a ceramic coating or polishing the car annually, taking steps to prevent damage can save time and money in the long run.
Additionally, staying informed about the latest developments in the EV world is crucial. From understanding the environmental benefits to learning about potential risks, being proactive can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable driving experience.
As the popularity of electric vehicles continues to grow, so does the need for awareness and education around their unique features and challenges. By sharing experiences and offering support, the EV community can work together to address these issues and promote a more sustainable future.
