Probably every owner of an EV has ever thought about increasing the car’s range. Electric vehicle fans always want to be able to drive as far as possible on a single charge. Luckily, increasing the range is actually possible. Let’s run through the key tips and tricks for how this can be done.
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Charging the Battery in a Proper Manner
It is advisable to avoid fully discharging the battery to zero and charging it to 100%. Such usage quickly reduces the battery’s lifespan. As a result, it may begin to degrade, and the range will decrease.
For this reason, it’s better to maintain the battery charge within the range of 30% to 80%. Therefore, it’s not advisable to frequently charge it at powerful direct-current charging stations. Charging from a home alternating current station is gentler on the battery.
Reducing EV Battery Consumption
Many owners of electric vehicles love them for their high dynamic performance. That’s why fast starts at traffic lights and frequent overtaking are key performance features that make EVs stand out.
Yet, such a style of driving causes a sharp jump in EV energy consumption. For example, the energy loss per second when driving dynamically can exceed 1.04 mi/kWh (60 kWh/100 km). To increase your EV driving range, you should avoid sudden starts from a standstill and rapid accelerations. When driving an electric car on the highway, it is recommended to keep the speed no higher than 70 mph (110 km/h). To maintain economy mode, you can use the cruise control.
The climate system can also increase energy consumption. To reduce this factor, it’s better not to set the climate control to maximum settings. The same situation refers to winter EV driving. Turn on the car heating system by gradually increasing the temperature, and you can save the battery charge.
There is also another useful life hack. Wheels of smaller diameter for an electric vehicle help reduce energy consumption due to their light weight. As a rule, such wheels are additionally equipped with special aerodynamic caps that reduce air resistance. Properly inflated tires also contribute to the EV’s energy savings.
Setting Up EV Recuperation
You can also use a special energy recuperation system to increase the EV range. Its principle of operation is that when the accelerator pedal is released, the electric motors begin to automatically brake the car. At the same time, the motors themselves temporarily begin to work as generators. This means they send excess energy to the EV electric battery, charging it. On average, up to 70% of the energy can be recovered with the help of an EV recuperation system.
Modern electric cars have several levels of recuperation. To increase the range, specialists recommend setting it to the maximum. Yet, novice electric car drivers may find the recuperation mode functioning a little bit unusual. Therefore, it is better to get used to it at a minimum level and then gradually increase its efficiency.
In the End
There are a few tips and tricks on how to save the energy level of an electric car. Increasing the range of EVs involves smart driving, efficient energy use, and careful battery maintenance. By following these simple but effective recommendations, you will receive better range for more comfortable driving.
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