So, you’re cruising around in your shiny new electric vehicle, but that nagging question keeps popping up – How far can I actually go on a single charge? Good news – you’re not alone in asking! With over 61,000 public chargers across the UK as of May 2024, there’s no shortage of places to juice up. But, as with all vehicles (even petrol and diesel ones), your EV’s range may vary depending on a few key factors.

But don’t worry! We’re here to bust some myths and put the power right back in your hands. By understanding what affects your EV’s range, you’ll be zipping around with confidence and maximising every mile. Let’s dive in and explore the factors that can impact your EV’s range, so you can hit the road worry-free.

1. Your Driving Style

We all know the feeling of putting the pedal to the metal (or charging to the metal, in the case of an EV). But here’s the thing – the way you drive can seriously impact how far your EV goes.

Aggressive driving, like rapid acceleration or slamming on the brakes, can drain your battery faster than you can say “eco mode.” Smooth and steady wins the race here – and hey, it’s better for your nerves too!

Pro tip: Use regenerative braking. This nifty feature converts the energy used in braking back into power for your battery. Plus, switching to eco-mode is a game-changer. It helps manage your car’s energy usage and boosts your range while making every drive smoother and more efficient.

2. Weather – It’s a Factor

Whether you’re battling freezing temperatures or trying to stay cool in the summer heat, Mother Nature can mess with your EV’s battery. Cold weather can reduce battery capacity, while scorching temps can make the battery work harder.

Here’s the fix: Precondition your EV while it’s still plugged in. This means you’re using external power to optimise your battery’s temperature before you hit the road. For those chilly mornings, consider using heated seats and the steering wheel to warm up – much more energy-efficient than heating the whole cabin!

3. Extra Weight and In-Car Perks

Those extra shoes in the boot? The shopping bags rolling around in the back? They might not seem like much, but extra weight means your battery has to work harder.

Also, using things like air conditioning or blasting the music can sap your battery. Keep an eye on your in-car accessories, especially heating and cooling systems. Sparing them could give your battery the extra boost it needs to stretch its range.

4. Battery Age and Health

Like all things in life, batteries don’t last forever. As your EV’s battery ages, its ability to hold a charge diminishes. But don’t fret – you can do your part to keep your battery in tip-top shape.

Try not to let your battery drop too low regularly, and keep it charged within the 20% to 80% sweet spot. This helps extend its lifespan and ensures you’re never caught off guard when it’s time to hit the road.

5. Terrain and Your Route

Is your route a hilly adventure, or are you cruising along a flat highway? Terrain plays a huge role in your EV’s energy usage. Steep hills or heavy stop-and-go traffic will cause your battery to drain faster.

Planning is key! Use route planning tools designed for EVs to find the most energy-efficient paths. These tools can avoid routes that deplete your battery more quickly and help you enjoy a smoother ride. Go ahead – take the scenic route!

6. Keep Those Tires in Check

Believe it or not, your tires can make or break your range. Under-inflated tires create more rolling resistance, which forces your EV to work harder, using up more battery.

Solution: Keep your tire pressure at the manufacturer’s recommended levels. It’s a small step that can make a huge difference in both efficiency and handling.

7. Charging Habits – Yes, They Matter

Believe it or not, how and when you charge matters! Charging your EV the right way can extend its battery life and improve performance.

Charge slowly during off-peak hours (aka when everyone else is sleeping) – this can save you money and energy. And, try to avoid letting your battery get too low before recharging it. Again, that 20% to 80% rule is key for optimal battery health.

With a smart charger at home, you can even schedule your charging times to take advantage of cheaper electricity. Some EVs also let you sell your excess energy back to the grid. Pretty cool, right?

In a Nutshell…

Electric vehicles are seriously cool – quiet, fast, and eco-friendly! With just a little bit of know-how, you can maximise your car’s range and keep your road trips smooth and stress-free.

It’s all about smart driving, smart charging, and knowing how to care for your EV’s battery. The road is waiting – and with these tips, your EV will be ready to tackle it head-on!