Tips for Extending Electric Vehicle Range
If you have a plug-in hybrid or electric vehicle (EV), you understand it needs recharging after the estimated all-electric driving range. Today's EVs have improved in driving range efficiency and can average about 200 to 300 miles between charges, depending on the model.
For example, the popular all-electric Ford F-150 Lightning pickup truck has a driving range of about 230 miles with the 98 kWh battery pack and about 320 miles with the larger 131 kWh battery pack. The sleek Mustang Mach-E gets an estimated driving range between 224 and 312 miles, depending on the battery pack size.
If you're on a long road trip, you'll have to find a charging station to recharge the battery, which will take time and money. However, you can use these simple tips from our team at Chalmers Ford in Rio Rancho, New Mexico, to help extend your EV's driving range and save time.
How Long Does It Typically Take To Charge an EV?
Charging your EV can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 12 hours, depending on the level of the charger. Other factors that can affect charging time for your EV include the power source, the size of the battery, its condition and age, and the outside temperature. If you have an aging battery, it may take longer to get a full charge than a new one, and if it's too cold or hot outside, charging time will vary.
Let's explore EV charging levels.
Level 1 Charger
A Level 1 charger is the least efficient way to charge your EV battery and can take hours or even days to fully recharge. Level 1 chargers use the 120-volt receptacle commonly found throughout your house. If you drive your EV sporadically, a Level 1 charger may be enough for your needs.
Level 2 Charger
Most EV owners who use their vehicle for daily driving have a Level 2 charging system in their home. Instead of using a standard 120-volt household receptacle, the Level 2 system uses a 240-volt system. With this system, you'll install a specialized wall box that accepts the ends of the charging cable. When you plug the cable into your EV, charging it can take about four to 10 hours.
Many public charging stations across the nation use Level 2 charging systems. While using a public charging station to recharge your EV is convenient, you still have to find something to do while you wait for a full charge.
Level 3/DC Fast Charging
Level 3/DC fast charging systems are the most efficient way to quickly charge your EV, often in as little as 20 to 30 minutes. This type of charging system isn't available for home use, and you have to find a commercial charging station with the equipment and cables to charge your EV quickly. If you plan on using a Level 3/DC fast charger, download an app that shows where these public charging stations are. They're often located in shopping malls, near public libraries, restaurants, and even coffee shops.
How To Extend Your EV Driving Range
Now that you understand the different charging levels, you may not want to take the time required to recharge your EV between trips. Below is a list of ways to extend your EV driving range so you can do other things with your time.
Have the Correct Tire Pressure
Tires have rolling resistance that can impact an EV's driving range. Maintaining the proper tire pressure can help reduce rolling resistance and extend the range of your EV. Underinflated tires increase drag and friction, making the car use more energy when moving. Regularly checking the tire pressure with a tire pressure gauge can help you know when the tires are low and need air. You can find the tire pressure recommendation for your EV in your owners manual.
Minimize Using Climate Control Features
While not using your air conditioner on hot days and the heater on cold days isn't recommended for comfort, you can minimize using these features to save battery life. You can always precondition the vehicle while it's still plugged in and charging to help cool or heat it before you get in to drive. However, preconditioning is only a temporary solution, as the car can heat up or cool down quickly when exposed to the elements.
Drive Slower
The faster you drive, the more of the battery's power you use. Hard acceleration can use significant battery power, so try to drive as smoothly as possible. Many EVs come with a special eco driving mode that helps with soft acceleration, or you can use the adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go technology to avoid hard acceleration.
Don't Carry Heavy Loads
You'll use more energy if you carry substantial weight in your EV. You'll want to be careful when loading a lot of gear and supplies inside your EV SUV or pickup truck to maximize your all-electric driving range.
Restrict Use of Accessories
Headlights, windshield wipers, and entertainment systems use significant energy, draining your battery. If you can avoid driving at night or in the rain, you can help extend the driving range. Turning off the stereo will also reduce battery consumption.
Keep Your Regenerative Braking System On
Your EV's regenerative braking system helps recharge its battery. You can take advantage of this system by leaving it on, slowing down, and decelerating before you need to stop, which can help boost the regenerative braking system and add power to the battery.
Learn More Tips for Extending Your EV Driving Range
At Chalmers Ford in Rio Rancho, New Mexico, we understand the value of your time and hope these tips can help you drive further with your EV. If you're looking to upgrade your internal combustion engine, hybrid, or plug-in hybrid vehicle for an all-electric Ford, we carry the F-150 Lightning pickup truck and the Mustang Mach-E SUV. We invite you to stop by and take a new Ford for a test drive and learn more about EVs and their features. When it's time to have your vehicle serviced, you can schedule maintenance, oil changes, or repairs at our state-of-the-art service center.
Image by Possessed Photography | Licensed with Unsplash License
