Three Quarters Of Drivers Find EVs Less Stressful Than Petrol Or Diesel, As 39% Of Brits Cite Driving As A Major Source Of Their Life Stress

Three Quarters Of Drivers Find EVs Less Stressful Than Petrol Or Diesel, As 39% Of Brits Cite Driving As A Major Source Of Their Life Stress

12 September 2025

A survey by DS Automobiles has revealed the stresses on Britain’s drivers.  The results revealed that three-quarters (75%) of drivers with experience of electric vehicles (EVs) say they feel more relaxed in an EV than their previous petrol or diesel vehicle. The survey also showed that 39% of motorists find driving stressful, with the top causes including being tailgated (58%), poor lane discipline from other drivers (53%) and roadworks or traffic (44%).  

Among those who experience stress behind the wheel, over a third (35%) admit it negatively affects how they drive, making them more indecisive, distracted or prone to rash decisions. The DS N°8 has been engineered to reflect this, from its up-to 466 miles electric range to massaging seats, soundproof glass and immersive 690W 3D sound system, every detail is designed to make the driving experience relaxing and less stressful.

Three Quarters Of Drivers Find EVs Less Stressful Than Petrol Or Diesel, As 39% Of Brits Cite Driving As A Major Source Of Their Life Stress

The impact of stress behind the wheel is more than emotional; over a third (35%) of stressed drivers admit it actively worsens their driving performance, making them more indecisive, distracted or prone to rash decisions. Due to the added stress, many drivers are seeking relief through their car’s features. The majority of motorists (63%) say comfortable seating helps reduce stress, followed by in-car entertainment (52%), navigation assistance (49%) and smooth suspension (42%).

To help drivers unwind and restore calm, DS Automobiles has created a range of vehicles that prioritise serenity and comfort, blending cutting-edge technology with French savoir-faire. The brand’s latest electric flagship, DS N°8, brings this vision to life like never before. With up to 466 miles of all-electric range (WLTP), DS N°8 offers a serene escape, featuring massaging heated and ventilated seats, neck warmers, soundproof glass, and a 690W ELECTRA® 3D sound system.

Interior designs include olive leaf-tanned Nappa leather and Alcantara® made from 68% recycled content. To further add to the relaxing atmosphere of the N°8 includes ambient lighting, panoramic glass roof, and the DS ACTIVE SCAN SUSPENSION system that analyses the road ahead by anticipating bumps and adjusting in real time, further elevating the sense of smooth, uninterrupted motion. It’s this that 42% of drivers said a good ride in their car makes them feel less stressed.

Three Quarters Of Drivers Find EVs Less Stressful Than Petrol Or Diesel, As 39% Of Brits Cite Driving As A Major Source Of Their Life Stress

42% of drivers also say that they feel stress while driving in unfamiliar areas, the DS N°8 allows drivers planning long trips with total peace of mind with the DS IRIS SYSTEM 2.0 and EV Routing, which calculates optimal charging stops and arrival times in real time. To further reduce the mental load while on the move, the DS IRIS SYSTEM now includes ChatGPT, a conversational AI that allows drivers to ask for information, inspiration or assistance while keeping their hands on the wheel and focus on the road. The AI assistant can recommend places while en route, to creating entertainment for kids in the backseat, making the driving experience into a more informed and stress-free journey. Meanwhile, the Free2Move Charge provides access to more than 900,000 charging points across the UK and Europe, including over 135,000 rapid chargers, for effortless top-ups wherever the road takes you.

Jules Tilstone, MD of DS Automobiles UK said: “We know that stress behind the wheel affects more than just the driver, it impacts confidence, decision making and enjoyment. That’s why our aim at DS Automobiles is to craft experiences. With the N°8, we’ve created a true escape from the stresses and strains of British roads.”

Discover DS  Find A Dealer