Dogs, like their human companions, enjoy car trips, but the experience can be stressful for some, especially those who don’t share the same enthusiasm for sticking their heads out the window. A new study has found that electric vehicles (EVs) might provide a calmer and more comfortable travel experience for dogs compared to traditional petrol and diesel cars.
Veterinarian Dr. Scott Miller and his one-year-old Cocker Spaniel, Mango, teamed up with Skoda for the experiment, which tested Mango’s stress levels during trips in three different Škoda models: an all-electric Elroq, a diesel Kodiaq, and a petrol Karoq. The results, based on Mango’s heart rate and behavior, showed clear preferences for electric cars.
The test took place on the former Top Gear test track, where Mango was driven in the three vehicles at speeds of up to 70 mph (113 km/h). While Mango’s heart rate remained relatively calm in the EV, only rising from a resting 80 beats per minute (BPM) to 100 BPM, it spiked significantly in the petrol and diesel cars, reaching 120 BPM and 125 BPM, respectively.
Dr. Miller observed that Mango appeared far more relaxed in the all-electric Elroq, lying down and nearly falling asleep, while in the petrol and diesel vehicles, he was more tense and distracted. “The EV provided a smoother and more calming experience,” said Dr. Miller, highlighting the quiet mechanics, absence of gear shifts, and spacious interiors of electric cars as contributing factors to the dog’s relaxed state.
Mango’s body language also conveyed his preference. In the electric car, he was lying down comfortably with soft, semi-closed eyes, whereas in the traditional cars, he was sitting upright, his head moving rapidly, and showing signs of stress, including wide eyes and tension.
Behaviorist Anna Webb, who observed Mango’s reactions, noted that his heart rate was significantly lower in the EV, reinforcing the notion that electric vehicles create a more stress-free environment for dogs during travel.
While the findings are promising, it’s important to note that EVs may not completely solve motion sickness for some dogs. The regenerative braking system in electric cars, which provides deceleration, can trigger motion sickness due to its low-frequency movement. However, for dogs like Mango, the smooth, quiet ride in an EV could make a world of difference in ensuring a happy and relaxed trip.
This study adds to previous research, such as one by the University of Lincoln, which showed a heart rate reduction of around 30 percent for dogs in EVs compared to diesel cars. As electric vehicles continue to gain popularity, it seems they might not just be better for the environment, but also for our furry friends.