5 Simple Strategies to Maximize Your EV’s Driving Range

Electric vehicles have significantly improved, alleviating previous concerns about range. Nowadays, credible EV manufacturers need to provide an EPA-certified range of at least 300 miles, with some even nearing 500 miles. Nonetheless, for longer journeys or areas with few charging stations, it can be beneficial to implement techniques that maximize your EV’s battery life. In addition to conventional methods used for enhancing fuel efficiency, here are five strategies to help you extend your EV’s range between charges.

Unlike traditional gasoline vehicles that lose kinetic energy during braking, electric vehicles can harness this energy and convert it back into electricity to recharge their batteries. Each EV manufacturer has its unique approach to regenerative braking, but the basic principle remains the same: the electric motors that drive the vehicle can also function as generators that capture energy while slowing down.

In situations where hard braking isn’t required, regenerative braking can create small increments of battery recharge, enhancing your range. While it’s challenging to quantify the exact mileage gained, the U.S. Department of Energy estimates that regenerative braking can recover up to 22 percent of energy during combined city and highway driving.

While traditional cars utilize a compressor for air conditioning, all-electric vehicles depend on their battery to generate cool air for the interior. As a result, using air conditioning consumes battery power, which could otherwise contribute to range.

To minimize this effect, consider preconditioning your EV while it’s still charging at home. This allows the vehicle to reach a comfortable temperature without draining its battery. Additionally, basic actions such as using sun shades, ventilating with open windows, or utilizing cooled seats can help maintain comfort without relying heavily on the air conditioning system.

Extreme cold can negatively impact your EV’s range. Frigid temperatures can slow down the chemical processes in the battery, reducing output. The U.S. Department of Energy warns that driving in below-freezing conditions can decrease range by up to 32 percent.

According to tests by Consumer Reports, driving in 16-degree weather can cut an EV’s range by around 25 percent at 70 mph compared to temperatures in the mid-60s. Like running the AC in warmer months, heating the cabin in winter can also diminish range.

Aerodynamics play a crucial role in influencing all vehicles, especially electric ones, in terms of efficiency. Reduced drag corresponds to extended range, which is why manufacturers often highlight their vehicles’ aerodynamic design, such as the Lucid Air with a 0.197 drag coefficient.

To enhance range further, it’s wise to remove unnecessary accessories that can hinder aerodynamics, such as roof racks or extra gear. Additionally, a clean trunk means less weight, contributing to better efficiency.

While the swift acceleration of EVs is tempting, maintaining a moderate speed can lead to better range. Accelerating rapidly requires a substantial amount of power, and consistent hard acceleration can lead to frequent charging stops.

For improved range, consider driving using cruise control or engaging the eco mode. Higher speeds increase air resistance, which can significantly reduce distances covered. For example, studies have shown that driving at 75 mph compared to 55 mph can deplete over 100 miles of range in vehicles such as the Kia EV9.