Tips to extend your electric car's range

Range anxiety is the fear of running out of battery power before you reach your destination. While this is less of an issue for daily commutes (which average about 30 minutes in Europe), it can become a concern on longer trips. Fortunately, modern EVs can travel between 300 and 500 kilometres on a single charge, and there are over 600,000 public charging stations across Europe to help you recharge¹.

During hot summer days, air conditioning can be essential, but it can drain your battery. Here’s how to stay cool without sacrificing range:

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  Pre-cool your car: If you can, cool your EV while it’s still plugged in. This way, you use power from the grid instead of the battery.
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  Set the temperature wisely: Instead of the coldest setting, try keeping it between 20-23 degrees Celsius. This not only saves battery but also keeps you comfortable.
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  Park in the shade: This helps keep your car cooler and reduces the need for air conditioning. Using a sunshade can further protect your car from heat.

It might seem odd, but properly inflated tyres can improve your EV's range. Under-inflated tyres create more rolling resistance, which uses more energy. Make sure to check your tyre pressure regularly, ideally once a month and before any big trip.

Packing light can be a challenge, especially for a road trip, but it’s worth it. The heavier your car is, the more energy it needs to move. Before you pack, remove any unnecessary items from your car and only take what you truly need. Additionally, avoid using roof racks or boxes, as they can increase air resistance, further reducing your range. But don’t take out safety essentials like first aid kits.

Taking breaks during your journey is important for your safety and comfort. Plan your route to include charging stops, and remember that parking often equals charging! A good rule of thumb is to take a 15-minute break every two hours of driving. This way, you can recharge both yourself and your EV. Using apps that show charging station locations can help you plan your route more effectively.

Your driving habits and car’s features can greatly affect your EV's range. And some like regenerative breaking can help you out. This feature allows your car to recover energy while braking, feeding it back to the battery. It’s like charging your battery every time you slow down.

To maintain your battery's health, avoid letting it drop below 20% charge. For daily use, aim to charge it up to 80%. Only charge to 100% for long journeys. Also, try to use fast chargers sparingly, as frequent use can degrade battery life. Regular use of standard chargers can extend battery life compared to fast charging.

Weather can influence your EV’s range. Cold temperatures require more heating, which drains the battery. If it’s hot outside, try to avoid parking in direct sunlight to prevent overheating. Keep your EV in a garage or shaded area, when possible, as extreme temperatures can negatively affect battery performance. Good news about driving in the summer – it appears that higher temperatures can increase the battery capacity in the short term, although longer use at higher temperatures can degrade batteries faster.²

With these simple tips, you can extend your electric vehicle's range and enjoy a worry-free driving experience. By being mindful of how you drive, what you pack, and how you care for your EV, you can say goodbye to range anxiety. So, get out there and enjoy the open road with your electric vehicle!

By following these strategies, you'll not only enhance your driving experience but also contribute to a more sustainable way of travelling. Happy driving!