Range anxiety is indeed a significant concern for electric car owners or drivers, especially when they face emergencies. One fundamental aspect to understand is that the range mentioned by the manufacturer in their brochure is the maximum achievable under ideal conditions, often determined through lab testing.
However, real-world factors like car body weight, passenger weight, road conditions, friction, air resistance, and driving style can significantly affect this certified range. So EV car drivers need to be aware that they may not always achieve the maximum advertised range in everyday driving scenarios.
In practical terms, it’s wise to anticipate a reduction in the range of around 20% from the lab-tested figures. This means that if a vehicle (weighing around 1200 kg) is advertised with a range of 215 kilometers, drivers might realistically expect to achieve closer to 180 kilometers in normal driving conditions.
Then the weight factor also matters a lot and if the car weighs around 10,000 lbs or 4500 kg, the certified range will reduce by 3X, and on a single charge the car will now give a range of only 70 km!
However, in emergencies where every kilometer counts, there are steps drivers can take to extend their vehicle’s range. Here are 10 ways to squeeze more miles out of your electric car battery. By implementing these practical strategies, you can extend your EV’s range, navigate unexpected situations with confidence, and enjoy the freedom and environmental benefits of electric driving.
Have a look at the practical tips to extend the range of EV cars below:
#1. Optimize Vehicle Load
Removing any unnecessary weight from inside your electric vehicle can help reduce overall energy consumption and propulsion requirements, thereby extending driving range. Each additional kilogram of weight adds to the amount of energy the motor must expend to accelerate and move the vehicle down the road.
This also has been proven in a study done by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. As per their study, a 10% reduction in vehicle weight can improve the electric vehicle range by up to 6%. Therefore, traveling as lightly as possible by taking out unneeded items from the cabin and trunk can make a noticeable difference when it comes to maximizing mileage per charge.
#2. Manage Climate Control
Turn off the air conditioning or heating systems when they’re not essential. According to a study by AAA, turning off air conditioning in EVs can improve range by up to 1.5%. Heating and cooling can place a significant demand on the battery, reducing range. If conditions permit, consider using natural ventilation instead.
#3. Minimize Electrical Usage
Switch off non-essential electronics like lights, entertainment, chargers, and USB ports when not in use. This reduces electrical strain on the EV battery, allowing it to allocate more power to the motor instead of ancillary systems. Manually turning off or unplugging unnecessary electronics will help maximize battery usage for driving range rather than draining capacity on secondary features. Disconnecting unused electrical systems conserves battery for propulsion over less critical functions.
#4. Utilize Regenerative Braking
Take advantage of regenerative braking systems to recapture energy during deceleration. As per the research of the Environmental Protection Agency, regenerative braking can improve electric vehicle range by up to 10%. Another study confirms that regenerative braking can increase vehicle range by up to 30% depending on the vehicle. This helps replenish the battery’s charge and extend the overall range of the vehicle.
#5. Drive Efficiently
Practice smooth and steady driving techniques, like gradually accelerating and braking early to optimize energy efficiency, which can maximize your electric vehicle’s range per charge. Sudden accelerations and heavy braking should be avoided as much as possible, as these inefficient driving behaviors force the motor to work harder, wasting battery energy through rapid power drain and dissipation of energy as heat.
By driving conservatively with gradual speed changes, you save kinetic energy through regenerative braking and enhance your EV’s miles per charge by not making the motor over-work.
#6. Utilize Eco or Battery Saver Modes
Many electric vehicles offer driving modes designed to maximize efficiency and extend range. Engaging these modes can help conserve energy during emergencies.
#7. Plan Your Route
Whenever possible, plan your journey to include charging stations along the way. Even if you don’t need to charge immediately, knowing where stations are located can provide peace of mind and flexibility during emergencies. A planned journey with a navigation system suggests energy-efficient routes!
For this, I will suggest you download a trip-planning app or app that suggested by the car company. Using the app, you can find out the nearest charging stations without any issue. Additionally, using this app you can plan your trip in a better way and stay energetic throughout the journey.
#8. Tire pressure check
It is essential to maintain the optimal tire pressure that is recommended by your electric vehicle’s manufacturer to maximize driving range. Underinflated tires experience greater rolling resistance between the rubber and road surface, causing the motor to work harder and thereby reducing your car’s range per charge. Checking and inflating your tires regularly to the PSI advised in the owner’s manual helps minimize resistance and rolling friction, allowing your electric car to glide smoothly and efficiently for more miles on a single battery charge.
#9. Slow and steady wins the race
It has been proven that the higher speeds create more wind resistance which drains the battery faster. So always stick to the lower speeds, ideally below 60 mph, whenever possible. Don’t drive the car at high speeds like 100 kmph or 120 kmph, if you want more range then go slowly at a speed of 60-80 kmph only!
#10. Regular service
Follow your electric vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule to optimize performance and battery life. Adhering to the manufacturer’s suggested service intervals helps preserve your EV’s efficiency and range over time. Stay on track with inspections, parts replacements, software updates, and battery care. Skipping services can quickly degrade components, so routinely review your owner’s manual and schedule proactive check-ups.
Final Words
By implementing these strategies, drivers can effectively manage range anxiety and maximize the potential range of their electric vehicles, even in challenging circumstances. While these tips may offer incremental improvements, they can make a significant difference when every kilometer counts.
Ultimately, by adapting your driving habits, maintaining your car well, and planning your trips strategically, you can maximize your EV’s range and enjoy guilt-free electric miles.
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