On the road, the EV5 GT can be as docile or as wild as you want, simply by selecting the different drive modes. The Normal setting delivers a relatively comfortable ride, although harsher bumps can be felt courtesy of those large 20-inch wheels. When negotiating a rippled piece of tarmac, the dampers can be a little slow to respond, resulting in some bobbing up and down. This can be mitigated by selecting a firmer set-up, though, than the default GT mode.

The GT setting also introduces a snappier throttle and weightier steering, but the main issue with the EV5 (as with most electric performance SUVs) is overcoming a chunky kerbweight. While the battery is under the cabin floor to help lower the centre of gravity, there’s only so much the electronics can do to contain the EV5 GT’s 2.2-tonne mass, and any driving fun is limited by the amount of lean you’re prepared to put your passengers through. There’s plenty of grip on offer, though, so you’re not going to be pushing close to the limits on the road.

Straight-line acceleration is an EV strong point, and the EV5 GT’s 0-62mph time of 6.2 seconds is more than fast enough in a car such as this, although the relatively tall seating position doesn’t convey a sense of speed. Launch control is included and is selectable via the main menu, although it’s buried deep in the many layers of mode selection. Activate it, and the artificial sound generator kicks in with a growling idle, then you simply step on the brake with your left foot, apply full throttle with your right, and away you go.