Someone should definitely write a song about Driving Home for Christmas! The highs, the lows, the charging tips, and how to get maximum range from an EV! It could be a big hit.
Well, hopefully this blog will be the next best thing and show you how driving electric, with a sprinkle of planning and a dash of Zapmap to make your trip smoother, greener, and a lot more enjoyable.
This year, I’ve clocked up plenty of electric miles. From last Christmas’s EV road trip to Newcastle in the Ford Explorer, to taking the Polestar 4 to the Alps and back, I’ve learnt a lot about winter EV travel. But I’ve made mistakes along the road and want to share those with you, so you can avoid them.
The 5 Ps.. Preparation and Planning Prevents Pi$$ Poor Performance (in life, not just when driving!) and downloading a reliable charging app like Zapmap is the weapon of choice for pretty much every EV driver I’ve ever interviewed.
Plan Ahead, Charge Smart, Travel Easy
Cold weather affects battery performance, so planning ahead is key. You can use Zapmap to find the best-rated and most reliable chargers along your route. My rule is to top up when the battery’s around 20 per cent, rather than waiting until it’s nearly empty. Remember to pre-condition your battery en route if possible for optimum charging rates.
I also combine my coffee stops, toilet breaks, and snack runs with charging time. By the time I’m ready to get back on the road, my car usually is too.
Charge to 80 Per Cent, Save Time, Keep Moving
Charging from 80 to 100 per cent takes much longer than the first 80. It’s a lot like filling up a glass of water – fast at the start, slower at the end. To save time and keep the charging network flowing, I usually stop at around 80 per cent and move on. It’s more efficient, it helps others who are waiting, and it keeps the journey moving nicely.
Precondition, Stay Warm, Protect Your Range
If your EV allows it, precondition the battery and heat the cabin while it’s still plugged in. It helps preserve range, improves performance, and means you start your journey warm and comfortable. There’s nothing better than stepping into a toasty car on a frosty December morning.
Check Tyres, Pack Light, Drive Smooth
Before setting off, I always check my tyre pressure is at the correct PSI. Cold weather can lower tyre pressure, which affects both efficiency and safety.
I try to pack light, as the heavier the load, the more energy the car will use. Once I’m on the road, I focus on driving smoothly – gentle acceleration, steady speed, and using regenerative braking where possible. It makes the drive calmer and helps stretch the range that little bit further.
Relax, Enjoy, Arrive Charged
Winter road trips in an EV can be relaxing, comfortable, and in my experience, genuinely fun. You’re cutting emissions, saving money, and gliding along quietly while others are queuing at petrol stations.
If you’re looking for a playlist, check out my Spotify tunes for every occasion and get ready to drive home for Christmas the electric way.
Happy holidays and safe travels, Ric @ Sustainable Dad
