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  • learn driving in an EV comapare to a combustion engine!!!

learn driving in an EV comapare to a combustion engine!!!

Learning to drive an electric vehicle (EV) is generally easier and more beginner-friendly than learning to drive a traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle. Here’s a comparison of the two from a learner’s perspective:

https://youtu.be/OuQ0wDZMotk?si=Mcks_yGv3RfktjBk

 

🚗 1. Transmission & Gears

  • EVs:

  • ICEs:

    • Often have manual or automatic gearboxes.approved driving instructor badge

    • Learning the manual requires coordination of the clutch, accelerator, and gear stick.

    • Automatics are easier, but they still require gear selection.

✅ EVs are simpler to operate.


2. Acceleration & Braking

  • EVs:

    • Deliver instant torque, meaning quicker and smoother acceleration.

    • Regenerative braking slows the car when you lift off the accelerator (can be surprising at first).IMG 2055 2

  • ICEs:

    • Acceleration builds gradually.

    • Braking is conventional and more predictable for beginners.

⚖️ EVs offer smoother acceleration but may take time to get used to regen braking.


🔊 3. Noise & Vibration

  • EVs:

    • Very quiet and smooth, with minimal vibration.

    • Makes it easier to concentrate, especially for anxious learners.

  • ICEs:

    • Louder engine sounds and more vibration.

    • Engine noise can help know when to shift gears (manual).

✅ EVs provide a calmer learning environment.

https://youtu.be/H6JMhG3DgSA?si=Hk5929FHoijE5aES


🔧 4. Maintenance & Mechanics (Learning Context)

  • EVs:IMG 0019

    • Fewer mechanical components to worry about.

    • No oil changes, timing belts, etc.

  • ICEs:

    • More complex mechanical systems to understand and maintain.

✅ EVs are simpler to understand for basic driving purposes.


5. Refueling vs Charging

  • EVs:

    • Need to be plugged in and charged—requires learning about chargers, range, and planning trips.

  • ICEs:

    • Quick and easy to refuel at any gas station—more convenient for learners during longer sessions.

⚖️ ICEs are more convenient to refuel during lessons, but charging habits are easy to learn.


🧠 6. Learning Environment

  • EVs:

    • Modern interiors, often equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane-keep assist, auto-braking, etc.

    • Useful for building confidence, but shouldn’t replace learning fundamental skills.

  • ICEs:

    • Fewer driving aids in older models, requiring more driver input.

✅ EVs offer more learning support but may promote over-reliance on tech.   https://mmdrivingschools.co.uk/difference-between-automatic-gears-box-vs-manual/


Overall Verdict:

  • EVs are easier and less stressful for new drivers to learn on due to smooth handling, no gears, and less noise.

  • However, learning to drive on an ICE vehicle (especially manual) teaches more traditional skills that are still useful in many parts of the world.


Would you like help choosing an EV model suitable for learners, or tips on where to start learning?

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  • Driving lessons in North America compare to United kingdom.

Driving lessons in North America compare to United kingdom.

Driving lessons in North America (especially the U.S. and Canada) differ significantly from those in the United Kingdom, both in structure and in regulatory rigor. Here’s a side-by-side comparison:

1. Age Requirements

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Aspect North America (U.S./Canada) United Kingdom
Minimum learning age 14–16 (varies by state/province) 17 (16 for mopeds)
Full license eligibility 16–18 (varies) 17+

2. Learning Process

Aspect North America United Kingdom
Learner’s Permit Required: must pass a written knowledge test Required; must pass the provisional license process
Mandatory Lessons Not always required; depends on state/province No set minimum, but most take 20–50 hours with instructors
Professional Instruction Optional in many states/provinces; often with parental supervision Strongly recommended; most learners use a qualified driving instructor
Supervised Driving Often done with parents/guardians Often done with approved driving instructors and sometimes with family

3. Driving Test

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Aspect North America United Kingdom
Theory Test Yes, multiple-choice + signs Yes, multiple-choice + hazard perception
Practical Test Shorter (15–30 min); varies by region Longer (40–60 min); includes maneuvers, independent driving
Test Difficulty Generally seen as easier Considered more difficult and comprehensive

4. Cost    https://youtu.be/xMT4ua4yXKw?si=8x-aJl1J4Ihqx8ga

Aspect North America United Kingdom
Lesson Cost Lower ($30–60/hour) Higher (£30–50/hour)
Total Cost (average) $300–$1,000 (depending on lessons taken) £1,200–£1,500 (with lessons + test fees)

5. Licensing Process

Aspect North America United Kingdom
Graduated Licensing Common (e.g., GDL programs in the U.S. & Canada) No formal GDL system, but restrictions for new drivers
License Renewal Every 5–10 years, often without a test Every 10 years (photo renewal), no retest unless needed

6. Test Pass Rates

Region Pass Rate (approx.)
U.S. (varies by state) 50–70%
UK ~45–50% (theory) and ~47% (practical)

 

Summary of Key Differencestrainee driving instructor badge

  • The UK system is stricter, more structured, and generally more expensive.

  • North America (especially the U.S.) is more flexible but can be inconsistent due to state/provincial variation.

  • UK learners often rely more heavily on professional instructors and must pass harder tests.

  • North American learners often gain experience through family supervision and may encounter less rigorous testing.

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  • Learning driving in Big Cities compare to Small Towns.

Learning driving in Big Cities compare to Small Towns.

Learning to drive in big cities vs. small towns presents distinct challenges and benefits.

Here’s a comparison to help understand the differences:


1. Traffic and Congestion

  • Big Cities: High traffic volume, frequent stop-and-go driving, and complex intersections make driving more stressful and harder for beginners.

  • Small Towns: Less traffic and simpler road layouts create a more relaxed learning environment.  https://mmdrivingschools.co.uk/contact-us/


2. Road Infrastructure  M&M driving passed first time


3. Parking

  • Big Cities: Limited and expensive parking; parallel parking skills are often essential.

  • Small Towns: More space and easier parking access, reducing learners’ anxiety.


4. Driver Behavior

  • Big Cities: Drivers may be impatient or aggressive, which can be intimidating.

  • Small Towns: Generally, more courteous drivers, offering a more forgiving learning environment.     passed first time


5. Public Transport Availability

  • Big Cities: Reliable public transit means less pressure to learn driving quickly.

  • Small Towns: Limited transport options may necessitate learning to drive sooner for independence.


6. Test Difficulty

  • Big Cities: Driving tests may include more complex routes and traffic scenarios.

  • Small Towns: Simpler testing routes, potentially making the driving test easier.


Conclusion

Learning to drive in small towns is usually easier and less stressful, but may not expose learners to the full range of challenges they’ll eventually face. Big city learners get a more comprehensive experience that prepares them well for diverse driving situations, though it’s often more intimidating and demanding.

Would you like tips for learning to drive in a big city, specifically?

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  • The Beginner’s Guide to Clutch Control Guidance

The Beginner’s Guide to Clutch Control Guidance

The Beginner’s Guide to Clutch Control:trainee driving instructor badge

Clutch control is one of the foundational skills you’ll need to master if you’re learning to drive a manual transmission (stick shift) vehicle. It’s about managing the interaction between the clutch and the accelerator to ensure smooth gear changes, especially when starting from a stop or driving at low speeds.

If you’re new to driving stick, it can be tricky at first, but with some practice and patience, you’ll get the hang of it. Here’s an easy-to-follow guide for beginners:


What is Clutch Control?

Clutch control refers to the skill of using the clutch pedal to engage and disengage the engine from the wheels smoothly. It’s the key to preventing the engine from stalling when you start moving or shift gears. The clutch pedal connects the engine to the gearbox, and controlling it is essential for smooth driving.

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Steps for Clutch Control:

1. Understand the Clutch Pedal:

  • Left Pedal: The clutch is the leftmost pedal in most cars.

  • When you press the clutch, you disengage the engine from the wheels, which allows you to shift gears.

  • When you slowly release the clutch, you engage the engine again.

2. Find the “Bite Point”:

  • The “bite point” is the sweet spot where the clutch starts to engage with the engine, meaning the engine starts transmitting power to the wheels. It’s usually around halfway or a little higher on the pedal’s travel.

  • When you’re learning, it’s important to find this point and practice holding it without either stalling the engine or jerking forward.

How to find it:

  • Press the clutch all the way down and shift into first gear.

  • Gradually release the clutch until you feel the car wanting to move (you’ll hear the engine tone change or feel the car begin to “pull”).

  • Once you find this point, practice just holding the car there without pressing the accelerator. If you go too far, the car may stall.

3. Moving Off from a Standstill (The Key to Smooth Starts):approved driving instructor badge

  • Step 1: Press the clutch pedal all the way down.

  • Step 2: Select 1st gear.

  • Step 3: Slowly release the clutch pedal until you reach the bite point.

  • Step 4: Gently apply a little pressure to the accelerator as you continue to release the clutch. The car will begin to move forward as the clutch fully engages.

The key here is a smooth coordination of releasing the clutch and pressing the accelerator at the same time. If you release the clutch too quickly, the car may stall. If you press the accelerator too much, you might lurch forward and even burn the clutch.

4. Stopping and Starting Again:

  • When stopping: Press the clutch down fully to disengage the engine before the car comes to a stop, especially if you’re in gear. If you don’t press the clutch in time, the engine will stall.

  • When starting from a stop: Use the same method of finding the bite point and then smoothly applying the throttle while continuing to release the clutch.

  • https://mmdrivingschools.co.uk/intensive-semi-intensive-courses/

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them:

1. Stalling the Engine:

  • Happens when you don’t release the clutch slowly enough or don’t apply the throttle as you release it.

  • How to fix: Practice finding the bite point and learn to give it just enough gas to keep the engine running while releasing the clutch slowly.

2. Jolting or Jerking Forward:

  • This happens when you release the clutch too quickly or apply too much throttle.

  • How to fix: Keep the accelerator gently pressed while you release the clutch slowly. Avoid slamming the clutch in or out.  M&M driving schoool pass first time

3. Riding the Clutch:

  • Keeping the clutch partially depressed for too long is called “riding the clutch,” and it can lead to premature wear on the clutch.

  • How to fix: Only press the clutch when necessary. When driving, keep your foot off the clutch unless you need to change gears or stop.


Practice Makes Perfect:

The best way to master clutch control is through repetition. Find a safe, quiet area (like an empty parking lot) to practice starting and stopping, and get comfortable with the feel of your car’s clutch.

Tips for Practice:

  • Take it slow: Don’t rush through the process. It’s normal to stall or jerk a little at first, but don’t let that discourage you.

  • Stay calm: Relax and give yourself time to feel how the clutch engages. Tension can make the process more difficult.

  • Use the handbrake: If you’re practicing on a hill or incline, use the handbrake to hold the car still while you get the clutch and throttle balance right.

  • https://mmdrivingschools.co.uk/difference-between-automatic-gears-box-vs-manual/

When to Shift Gears:

Once you’re moving and comfortable with clutch control, you’ll need to know when to shift to higher gears (2nd, 3rd, etc.). Generally:

  • Shift up when the engine revs (RPM) are higher than 2500–3000 RPM.

  • Shift down when you need more power or when the engine feels sluggish.

Shifting gears involves pressing the clutch fully, shifting into the desired gear, and releasing the clutch smoothly while applying the gas.


Clutch Control in Real-World Driving:

  • In traffic: The most challenging part of driving a manual car is stop-and-go traffic. Practice clutch control in these situations to get the smoothness right.

  • On hills: Use the handbrake to prevent rolling back when starting on an incline, and release the clutch slowly while applying a little throttle.


Final Thoughts:

Mastering clutch control takes time, so don’t rush it. With consistent practice, it will become second nature. Be patient, stay calm, and enjoy the process of learning a new skill! Once you’ve nailed clutch control, you’ll be able to drive confidently and smoothly in a manual transmission car.

Do you have any specific questions about clutch control or need more tips for manual driving?    IMG 0009

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  • how does it feels behind the wheel without instructor

how does it feels behind the wheel without instructor

Driving without an instructor can feel both liberating and nerve-wracking at the same time. For many, it’s an exciting moment of freedom,

but it can also come with a bit of anxiety, especially if it’s one of your first solo drives.

If you’re feeling confident and prepared, it can be a great experience where you get to control the car and decide your route.

It feels like you’re in charge, and that can be empowering. On the other hand, if you’re still getting used to certain aspects of driving,

like navigation, adjusting mirrors,

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or managing speed in different situations, there might be a sense of uncertainty.

Francesco passed first time from shieldhall test centre manual cars.

Some drivers describe a sense of relief once they settle into the rhythm of it and realize they can handle it on their own.

The key is to stay calm, focus on the road, and trust your training. How did you feel the first time you drove solo?