Dogs prefer EVs suggests a study of one canine

Skoda has undertaken a study that indicates dogs prefer the quiet ride of electric cars over ICE powered vehicles. Well, one dog at any rate.

A typical benefit of driving electric is the calm of the cabin, one reason that humans make the transition. Is that the same for dogs? Skoda, a dog-friendly firm, decided to put that to the test.

The company that sponsors the Crufts Dog Show asked TV vet Dr Scott Miller to undertake such a study.

It involved a one-year-old cocker spaniel named Mango. Miller hooked him up to a heart monitor while being transported in three differently motivated cars. They had electric, diesel and petrol powertrains. The tests involved speeds up to 120km/h.

Mango’s resting heart rate of 80 beats per minute rose to 120bpm and 125bpm in the petrol and diesel cars, respectively. But it reached just 100bpm in the electric Elroq. That’s evidently a statistically significant difference. However, with only a single subject one shouldn’t read too much into the results.

That said, Mango appeared to be more relaxed in the electric Elroq, “lying down and almost falling asleep during the drive. 

“In the fuel-powered cars he appeared more distracted and less settled.”

Dr Miller concluded on the findings of this n=1 study that being transported in an EV has possible health and psychological benefits for dogs. 

“Observing Mango’s reactions while travelling at the same speed on the same track, but in different vehicles, made it clear that the EV provided a smoother and more calming experience,” he said. “The quiet mechanics, absence of gear changes and the spacious interiors of electric cars create a soothing environment for dogs. That ensures a more relaxed and happy travel experience for our furry companions.”

Dog behaviourist Anna Webb commented: “As dogs’ hearing is four times more acute than ours, they pick up on sound frequencies of the traditional engine noises that are inaudible to people. Similarly, the vibrations of the petrol and diesel cars can cause ‘motion sickness’, raising Mango’s heart rate by feeling nauseous.”

Skoda also polled the opinions of dog owners, and reported that 53 per share their car with their pet at least once a week. 

Evidently 41 per cent said they’d consider their pet’s comfort when choosing their next car. The other 59 per cent clearly haven’t been trained properly.