How to maximise your EV's range while spending as little as possible
If you're among the many Australians who have bought an electric vehicle this year, or just want to better understand your EV, here's what the experts say about maximising the range of your ride.
For Australians who have recently purchased an electric vehicle, maximising its range without overspending is a priority. While EVs have made significant strides in range, they still consume more energy during extended freeway drives. Charging an EV is considerably less expensive than refuelling with petrol or diesel, but efficient usage can lead to substantial savings.
Regenerative braking, a unique feature of EVs, helps convert kinetic energy back into stored energy during deceleration. This feature can be adjusted or activated on most newer models and can be utilised through one-pedal driving, where the accelerator is used sparingly, relying primarily on the brake pedal. This technique, while initially unfamiliar, can greatly enhance efficiency.
Some drivers might be tempted to accelerate quickly from traffic lights, but this can be avoided to save battery power. Additionally, driving styles that involve stop-and-go city traffic are more conducive to EV efficiency, as the vehicle can recover energy through regenerative braking. Utilizing cruise control, autopilot, or eco mode can also regulate acceleration and deceleration, thus preventing unnecessary battery drain.
If a driver's charge is low but they are uncertain about reaching a charging station, reducing speed can extend the range. For instance, dropping from 100 km/h to 90 km/h can make a considerable difference. If additional range is necessary, reducing speed to 70 km/h can make a significant impact. Turning off auxiliary systems like air conditioning and carrying less weight can also reduce energy consumption. Keeping tyres properly inflated is crucial, as under-inflated tyres create more drag and consume more energy.
A well-maintained battery can last longer if it is kept between 20 and 80 percent charge, unless a full charge is required for a long trip. Charging at home, using solar power or off-peak electricity rates, can be the most cost-effective method. Overall, adopting these practices can help EV owners maximise their vehicle's range while keeping costs low.
Written by urgent.news from ABC News AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
