You become addicted to getting the most range out of your car even though you know you can now charge from 10-80% in about 30 minutes on certain models with the right charger. New personal best, here we come!
Over the years I have learnt a few tips from the EV experts. Let’s dive into it:
1. Smooth Acceleration and Gentle Braking:
Gentle acceleration and gradual braking helps conserve energy by avoiding unnecessary power surges and optimising regenerative braking. Embrace a smoother driving style to save precious kilowatt-hours.
2. Maintain Optimal Tyre Pressure:
Underinflated tyres can increase friction and drag, reducing efficiency. Regularly check and maintain proper tyre pressure to ensure your EV glides effortlessly on the road, thus enhancing range. #winning
3. Use Eco Mode Wisely:
Most EVs come with an Eco mode that optimises energy usage. Engage it during daily commutes or city driving to extend your EV’s range by reducing power consumption.
4. Minimise Air Conditioning and Heating:
Save money on expensive gym memberships for saunas and freezing plunge pools by challenging yourself not to use the Heating or AC in your vehicle!
Cooling can consume a significant amount of energy. Use seat warmers and natural ventilation whenever possible, and pre-condition your EV while it’s still plugged in to conserve energy from the battery.
5. Plan Your Routes and Charging Stops:
Utilise EV navigation apps to plan efficient routes and locate charging stations along the way. Preparing ahead ensures you won’t run out of power and can make the most of each charging session.
6. Avoid Flooring It:
Driving at higher speeds increases wind resistance and requires more power. Keep within recommended speed limits to improve energy efficiency and extend your range.
7. Minimise Use of High-Energy Accessories:
Electric vehicle accessories like heated seats, defrosters, and entertainment systems can drain your battery. Use them sparingly to save energy for driving.
8. Travel Light:
Extra weight in your EV means more energy is required to move it. Clean out unnecessary items from your car like golf clubs, buggies, bricks or anvils and travel as light as possible to optimise your range.
9. Regenerative Braking Techniques:
Practise regenerative braking by coasting to a stop and using the brake pedal less often. This technique converts kinetic energy back into battery power, contributing to longer range.
10. Battery Management:
Extreme temperatures can affect battery performance. Park your EV in shade during hot days and use battery thermal management features, if available, to keep the battery at an optimal temperature range.
There are impressive charging speeds nowadays, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try to get the most range out of your EV that you can. These tips have helped me out in my journey to net zero, so here’s to hoping they do the same for you! Stay tuned for more insightful blogs !
Share with someone that has made the switch and needs some pointers.
