So you have bought your first electric vehicle. You are enjoying the instant torque, and the smooth and quiet drive.
But you want to get even more out of your electric vehicle, such as how far you can go on a single charge. Here are a few ideas to have your EV run more efficiently and get the most range out of it.
1. UV is not good for EV
Alright, so technically not UV per se but given Singapore’s hot and humid weather, it is better to park your EV in the shade whenever possible. Otherwise, the battery thermal system will start using energy from the battery pack to cool itself. Alternatively, you can have it plugged in so that the battery’s thermal management system can tap the grid power to keep cool.
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2. Stop flooring it to flaunt it
So yeah, you want to show the other drivers how fast you can accelerate in your EV. But flooring it every opportunity you get will reduce your range. All you need to do is just press on the accelerator gently when the traffic lights turn green, and you will still leave most drivers behind … green with envy.
3. More speed, less range
Driving above 100kph for extended periods can reduce your EV’s range considerably. For example, driving an EV at 110kph on a highway can reduce the range by approximately 18% compared to driving at 100kph!
On the other hand, driving in an urban setting like Singapore helps with the range because you are going slower and braking more (traffic!). If your EV has an Eco mode, engage it to manage the more power-hungry features such as the accelerator.
4. Charge ahead with regenerative braking
One of the most useful features with EV is regenerative breaking. Each time you slow down, the electric motor acts as a generator to send energy from the brakes to charge the batteries. If your EV allows you to change the settings for regenerative breaking, you could try adjusting the level. The stronger you set it, the more energy you will get back. You will also slow down faster before hitting the actual brakes.
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5. Pump it up and not get tired out
Under-inflated tires add more resistance when you are driving and increases the energy consumption. You may also experience premature and uneven tread wear. Make it a habit to check your tire pressure. Always get it pumped to the manufacturer’s recommended amount. You will waste less energy and get more range out of your car.
6. Too much AC is not cool
Unlike internal combustion engine vehicles, the air-conditioning in an EV draws on battery power. Instead of running your AC on high which consumes a lot of energy very quickly, keep it at a lower setting and prevent that battery drain. You can also pre-programme the AC to run when the car is plugged in and charging. So when you are ready to take your EV out for a drive, the interiors would have cooled down and you don’t have to blast the aircon to get comfortable.
7. Watch that weight
The weight of the vehicle’s occupants and storage items can impact the EV’s efficiency. The heavier your EV, the more energy is needed to make it move. For this reason, remove any unnecessary heavy items and go the distance.
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Go the distance as an EV owner
There are a lot of practical things you can do to get the most range out of your electrical vehicle. With all the many benefits that an EV can offer, make your ownership experience a wonderful one.
