Tips To Boost The Range Of Your EV Range

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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%.
8. 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.
9. 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.