Hi guys! I’m driving a Model Y, and with a growing family, I’m thinking about getting a larger third-row EV SUV. But I’m worried about body roll when driving these big SUVs on the interstate, especially at speeds over 70 mph.
I recently rented a Subaru Ascent, which was pretty big but manageable (never went over 70 mph). Since EVs have heavy batteries low down, I figured they’d be more stable. But even in my Model Y, I start to feel some wobbling over 85 mph. Would it be worse in a larger SUV, or am I just overthinking it? Should I stick to slower speeds? Any advice? TIA!
To ease your worries, EVs like the EV9, Rivian R1S, or the VW Buzz have their heavy battery packs at the bottom, making them less prone to body roll than gas SUVs of a similar size.
Amelia said:
To ease your worries, EVs like the EV9, Rivian R1S, or the VW Buzz have their heavy battery packs at the bottom, making them less prone to body roll than gas SUVs of a similar size.
As a daily driver of a Model Y, I get the low center of gravity concept with EVs. But the height of these larger SUVs makes me wonder if that could still lead to more roll at high speeds.
I test-drove a Model X, which feels close to the Model Y on local streets, but on the interstate, I definitely notice the difference. I’d love to hear from actual owners of larger EVs, especially the Rivian R1S and the EV9, for some real-world insights. Sadly, the nearest Rivian showroom is pretty far, and their service center doesn’t offer demo drives!
@Michael
Have you seen the Model X crash test footage? Even in 70+ mph side impacts, it doesn’t tip over. If you’re on an incline, maybe it would, but ICE cars would have a tougher time in similar scenarios. I’d imagine other large EVs share that stability.
Amelia said:
To ease your worries, EVs like the EV9, Rivian R1S, or the VW Buzz have their heavy battery packs at the bottom, making them less prone to body roll than gas SUVs of a similar size.
I think this might just come down to how the manufacturer tunes it. For instance, I found the RAV4 too soft and almost felt sick compared to the stiffer suspension in the Nissan Rogue.
Take a test drive in the three-row Kia EV9 or Volvo EX90. Those heavy batteries keep the center of gravity low, making body roll a non-issue compared to gas SUVs.
@Christopher
Thanks! I just got new tires and alignment done a couple of months ago on my 2021 Model Y, so maybe it’s an issue with the suspension or build quality, as others have suggested.
Right now, I’m considering the Rivian R1S (debating between a used Gen 1 or new Gen 2), Volvo EX90, and maybe a Model X. Not a big fan of Kia, so the EV9 is out. Lucid Gravity looks interesting too, but kind of resembles a Pacifica, lol.
