Electric vehicles (EVs)/ pave the way to a cleaner, greener journey. To stretch their range, savvy driving techniques and diligent maintenance are essential. Whether you’re zipping to work or embarking on a grand adventure, boosting EV range can transform your travels. Master the art of electric driving with our expert tips that maximise every precious charge. This guide is your roadmap to efficient EV driving, ensuring you savour every mile.
Why EV Efficiency Matters
Unlike petrol or diesel cars, EVs use only battery power. If they run out of charge, you must find a charging station instead of simply refuelling. By driving efficiently, you can:
- Extend the driving range per charge.
- Reduce charging frequency, saving both time and money.
- Improve battery longevity and overall vehicle performance.
Quick Guide
Top Ways to Improve EV Efficiency
- Drive smoothly: Gentle acceleration and steady speeds save energy.
- Use regenerative braking: Recover energy on the go.
- Charge smartly: Keep battery between 20–80% and limit fast charging.
- Precondition in cold weather: Warm the battery and cabin while plugged in.
- Reduce weight & drag: Empty the boot, remove roof racks, and keep tyres inflated.
- Monitor energy use: Use in-car displays or apps to track and improve habits.
Pro Tip
Use Eco Mode whenever possible—it adjusts throttle response and limits high-energy functions, giving you extra miles with minimal effort. Think of it as cruise control for efficiency.
Important
Cold weather can slash your EV’s range by up to 30%. Always precondition the battery and cabin while your car is plugged in. It’s more efficient and keeps you warm without draining the battery on the road.
Best Driving Habits for Electric Cars
1. Drive Smoothly and Avoid Aggressive Acceleration
One of the biggest drains on EV efficiency is rapid acceleration and sudden braking. Unlike internal combustion engines, EVs deliver instant torque, which is great for performance but can deplete the battery quickly. To increase EV range, accelerate gradually and maintain a steady speed whenever possible.
2. Maximize Regenerative Braking
Regenerative braking converts kinetic energy back into electrical energy, helping to recharge the battery slightly while slowing down. Many EVs allow you to adjust the level of regenerative braking—higher settings can improve efficiency in stop-and-go traffic.
3. Use Eco Mode
Most EVs come with an Eco Mode that limits power output and adjusts throttle response to optimise energy consumption. Activating this mode is one of the easiest and most efficient EV driving tips to extend range.
4. Maintain a Consistent Speed
Driving at high speeds increases air resistance and energy consumption. Sticking to moderate speeds (typically 55–65 mph) on highways can significantly increase EV range compared to driving at 75 mph or above.
5. Plan Your Route Wisely
Using navigation apps that suggest energy-efficient routes can help you avoid unnecessary stops, steep inclines, and high-traffic areas. Many modern EVs have built-in route planners that estimate charge levels at the destination and suggest charging stops if needed.
Efficient EV Driving Tips: Battery and Charging Strategies
6. Keep Your Battery Between 20-80%
Extreme charging levels (both full and empty) can degrade the battery over time. To preserve battery health and increase EV range in the long run, aim to keep your charge between 20-80% and avoid frequent deep discharges.
7. Use Fast Charging Sparingly
While DC fast charging is convenient, frequent use generates heat that can degrade battery efficiency over time. Rely on Level 2 home charging when possible for steady, battery-friendly replenishment.
8. Precondition Your Battery
Cold weather can reduce EV range due to increased energy demands for cabin heating and battery warming. Many EVs offer preconditioning features, which warm up the battery while still plugged in, ensuring optimal performance once you start driving.
Reduce Energy Consumption with Smart Climate Control
9. Use Heated Seats Instead of Cabin Heating
Traditional cabin heaters in EVs consume a lot of power. Using heated seats and steering wheels instead of blasting the HVAC system can help increase EV range without sacrificing comfort.
10. Precondition the Cabin While Plugged In
Just like preconditioning the battery, setting your cabin temperature while still connected to a charger helps reduce the load on your battery during the drive.
11. Roll Down Windows at Low Speeds, Use AC at High Speeds
At lower speeds, opening windows is a more efficient way to cool down. However, at higher speeds, open windows increase aerodynamic drag, so using the air conditioning system becomes the better option.
Reduce Drag and Optimize Vehicle Load
12. Minimize Excess Weight
Extra weight requires more energy to move the vehicle. Removing unnecessary cargo from the trunk and avoiding roof racks when not needed can improve EV efficiency and range.
13. Check Tire Pressure Regularly
Underinflated tyres increase rolling resistance, requiring more power to move the vehicle. Maintaining proper tyre pressure ensures efficient EV driving and maximises battery efficiency.
14. Choose Low Rolling Resistance Tires
Many EV manufacturers recommend low-rolling-resistance tyres, which reduce friction and improve overall efficiency. Swapping to these specialised tyres can further increase EV range while maintaining safety and grip.
15. Optimize Aerodynamics
- Keep windows and sunroofs closed at high speeds to reduce drag.
- Remove unnecessary roof racks or carriers when not in use.
- Use aerodynamic wheel covers if available for your EV model.
Use Smart Technology to Improve EV Efficiency
16. Monitor Energy Consumption
Most EVs provide real-time energy consumption data through their infotainment system or mobile apps. Keeping an eye on efficiency stats can help you adjust your driving habits for better EV efficiency.
17. Use Adaptive Cruise Control
Adaptive cruise control helps save energy and keeps speed steady. It does this by avoiding sudden acceleration or braking.
18. Enable One-Pedal Driving
Some EVs have one-pedal driving. When you let off the accelerator, the car slows down. This also engages regenerative braking. This feature boosts energy recovery. It can greatly extend the EV range in cities.
Planning for Longer Trips
19. Identify Charging Stations in Advance
For road trips, plan ahead by mapping out charging station locations along your route. Apps like PlugShare, ChargePoint, and Tesla’s Supercharger network help you find chargers. They also provide real-time updates.
20. Drive During Optimal Weather Conditions
Extreme temperatures (hot or cold) can reduce battery efficiency. To minimise the impact on range, plan longer drives during moderate weather conditions.
21. Charge Strategically on Long Drives
Taking shorter charging breaks to reach 80% can be faster than fully charging. This method helps keep the battery in its most efficient range.
Top 5 FAQs
1. What’s the easiest way to extend my EV’s range?
Drive gently, avoid sudden acceleration, and make the most of regenerative braking. Even small changes in your driving style can make a noticeable difference.
2. Is it bad to always charge to 100%?
Yes—for everyday use, it’s best to charge to 80% to protect long-term battery health. Save 100% charges for long trips.
3. Should I use air conditioning or roll down the windows?
At low speeds, windows are fine. At motorway speeds, keep windows up and use A/C—it’s more efficient due to reduced drag.
4. How do I prep for a long road trip in my EV?
Plan your route using apps like PlugShare or Zap-Map, stick to 80% charge stops for faster breaks, and aim to drive in mild weather if possible.
5. Do tyres really affect range?
Absolutely. Properly inflated tyres with low rolling resistance can significantly improve efficiency. Check them regularly—especially before long drives.
Conclusion: Small Changes Lead to Big Gains
Embrace the art of electric driving with these top-notch tips. Mastering efficient EV habits can stretch your range and slash energy consumption. Glide down the road with smooth acceleration, optimally using your battery power. Minimise drag and harness smart technology to maximise every charge. Your battery will thank you for the care!
