ActewAGL evHub | Three ways to maximise your EV range

When you were looking for an electric vehicle that was right for you, it’s likely range was a consideration. Perhaps you opted for a convenient about-town run-around? Or maybe a long-range SUV for those long-distance weekend getaways? Whatever the range of your EV, increasing its distance per charge will lead to time and cost savings.

From the art of smooth driving techniques to the intricacies of EV care, here we present some strategies, insights and practical wisdom to ensure your EV range is performing at its best.

Drive smoothly at a steady speed

Adopting a smooth and sensible driving style is essential for maximising the range of your electric vehicle. Although it’s tempting to harness that instant torque, go easy on the acceleration and harsh braking, as this will drain your battery.

Focus on maintaining a steady and gentle acceleration rate. If you are approaching a red light or traffic slowing down, start easing off the accelerator early, allowing the vehicle to slow down gradually without using the brake pedal. When road conditions allow (such as when approaching a downhill slope), release the accelerator and let the vehicle coast. Coasting reduces energy consumption and allows your EV battery to recover some energy through regenerative braking.

EVs driven at high speeds lose energy due to wind resistance, so consciously drive slower when possible. Reducing your speed from 112kmh to 96kmh will save you a significant 14% of energy. Switch on cruise control to help you maintain perfect pace.

Care for your car

With the right conditions and care, your electric car can drive you further for less. Keep tyres in tip-top condition. According to Michelin, replacing worn-out tyres with new ones optimised for long wear can extend your EVs range by limiting energy loss through rolling resistance (the resistance experienced by a tyre as it rolls over a surface). Additionally, it is important to ensure your tyres are properly inflated to avoid a decrease to your EV’s range.

Limit your heavy cargo as extra weight such as heavy luggage, gear on your roof racks or even roof racks alone can make your motor work harder to compensate. Approximately every additional 45kg of cargo can increase your EV’s energy consumption by 1-2%. Also, be wary if you decide to tow heavy loads – this can slash EV ranges by around half.

Don’t forget to ensure your EV’s software and firmware are regularly updated. Keeping your EV’s software up to date will help your EV to operate at its best efficiency and performance.

Consider conditions

You can’t control the weather, however, you can do your best to create optimal conditions for your electric car to maximise its battery and range. The right parking location is important. EVs are averse to extreme temperatures, so try to park in a shaded area in hot weather and use the vehicle’s climate control to pre-condition the battery in colder months. Doing this when it’s still plugged in will reduce the strain on the battery during extreme temperatures.

Aside from driving, climate control is the next biggest battery drain. Running the air con for an hour could lose you around 11km of range, so when the temperature allows try to keep heating and cooling to a minimum.

If you’re on a long journey, consider and plan your route. The most direct route may not always be the best if it involves lots of stopping and starting or has hills or mountains to scale. For example, a 5% grade hill that rises approximately 152cm for every 30.5m of horizontal distance will reduce the range by about 5%, while a 10% grade will reduce the range by about 10%.

Summary

Smooth and steady driving will help to maximise your EVs driving range. Reducing your speed from 112kmh to 96kmh will save you 14% of energy.

Replace worn-out tyres with new ones optimised for long wear to increase your EVs range by 15%, and keep your tyres properly inflated to avoid increased rolling resistance.

Limit heavy cargo when possible, extra weight makes the motor work harder and decreases range.

Keep your EV’s software and firmware up to date to help your EV operate at optimal efficiency and performance.

Try to park in a shaded area in hot weather and use the vehicle’s climate control in colder months to reduce battery strain caused by extreme temperatures.

Consider and plan your route particularly on long journeys as steep inclines can reduce your EV’s driving range.

Are you considering making the switch to an electric vehicle? ActewAGL can help you effortlessly find, finance and charge your EV. Discover how ActewAGL can support your transition to sustainable driving today. Find out more here.