Despite the capability of some of the latest electric cars to travel over 300 miles between charges, the persistent concern of “range anxiety” remains a challenge for many EV owners. Juggling attention between the road and the battery level can be stressful, and nobody wants to face the inconvenience of being stranded with a dead battery.
Fortunately, there are practical strategies to maximise the mileage per charge and even surpass the rated distance of an EV. Here are ten straightforward tips to consider:
- Not So Fast: Maintain a speed of less than 60 mph whenever possible. Slowing down by just 10 mph can result in a 14% reduction in energy consumption, according to the Department of Energy. Activate the “Eco” option for gradual acceleration and avoid using the Sport mode if it drains the battery.
- Smoothly Does It: Accelerate slowly from a standstill to conserve battery power, resisting the temptation to use an EV’s instant torque for rapid acceleration.
- Be Cool Keeping Warm: Be economical with the use of the air conditioning, especially at maximum intensity. Utilise heated steering wheels and seats (if available) in winter to save energy. Pre-heat the car while the car is being charged to reduce climate control energy use while driving.
- The Power of Regenerative Braking: Take advantage of regenerative braking whenever possible. Use your car’s maximum regeneration setting to recover energy when decelerating, reducing the need for frequent brake usage.
- Limit the AC: Air conditioning rapidly depletes battery life. Use only the fan when possible, or open windows while driving. Pre-cool the car in summer while charging to minimise air conditioning use.
- Care for Tyres: Regularly check and maintain proper tire pressure, as underinflated tyres can increase energy consumption. Correctly inflated tyres improve efficiency and ensure even wear.
- Light Travel: Reduce unnecessary weight by emptying the boot of extra items. Each 100 pounds of additional cargo can increase energy usage by 1-2%.
- Keep It Simple: Avoid external attachments like cargo carriers and roof racks, as they create aerodynamic drag and increase energy consumption, particularly at higher speeds.
- Plan a Better Route: Opt for routes that allow steady driving at slower speeds to extend battery life. Avoid congested areas and hilly terrain, and use the navigation system to recommend energy-efficient routes.
Remember, these tips can significantly enhance the efficiency and range of your electric vehicle, making your driving experience more worry-free.
