How to Maximise Your EV's Battery Life and Range

Electric vehicles (EVs) have revolutionised driving with lower running costs compared to petrol and diesel cars. However, with rising electricity costs and the need to minimise charging stops, ensuring your EV’s battery lasts longer and delivers the best possible range is crucial. Here, we share essential tips to help you optimise your electric car’s battery life and efficiency.

1. Choose the Right Electric Car and Battery Size

Before purchasing an EV, compare its range with competitors. Some models, like the Volkswagen ID.3 and Audi Q4 e-tron, offer different battery sizes to balance range and cost. A larger battery extends range but may reduce efficiency due to added weight. Understanding kilowatt-hour (kWh) ratings can help you select the right EV for your needs.

2. Optimise Driving Habits for Maximum Range

• Drive Smoothly: Accelerate gradually and brake gently to conserve energy and maximise regenerative braking.
• Use Eco Mode: Many EVs feature an Eco mode that limits power output and optimises energy consumption.
• Regenerative Braking: Activate ‘B’ mode or one-pedal driving to recover energy while slowing down.
• Plan Routes Wisely: EVs are more efficient on slower roads than motorways, so consider alternative routes.
• Maintain Steady Speeds: Avoid high speeds, as energy consumption increases significantly above 70mph.

3. Charge Smartly to Preserve Battery Health

• Charge Up to 80%: Charging beyond this can degrade battery cells over time.
• Avoid Deep Discharges: Keep your battery level between 20-80% for longevity.
• Limit Rapid Charging: While convenient, frequent DC fast charging can accelerate battery wear.
• Precondition Before Charging: Let your EV battery cool before plugging in after a long drive.

4. Manage Climate Control for Efficiency

• Precondition While Plugged In: Use your EV’s smartphone app to heat or cool the cabin before departure.
• Use Heated Seats Instead of AC: Heating the entire cabin drains the battery faster than seat and steering wheel warmers.
• Select ‘Driver Only’ Mode: If your EV offers this feature, it reduces unnecessary energy use.

5. Keep Your EV Well-Maintained

• Check Tyre Pressures Regularly: Under-inflated tyres increase rolling resistance and reduce efficiency.
• Remove Unnecessary Weight: Extra cargo, roof racks, and bike carriers add drag and drain battery life.
• Update Software: Manufacturers like Audi, Volkswagen, and Honda often release over-the-air updates that improve efficiency and range.

6. Plan Charging Stops in Advance

Use apps like Zap-Map, Chargemap, and PlugShare to locate nearby charging stations. Some EVs, like the Audi Q8 e-tron and Volkswagen ID.4, integrate charging locations into their navigation systems, showing real-time availability and estimated charging times.

7. Adapt to Weather Conditions

• Park in the Shade in Summer: Heat drains battery life as thermal management systems work to cool it.
• Garage Your EV in Winter: Cold temperatures reduce battery efficiency, so keep it plugged in when possible.
• Preheat Before Driving in Winter: Using mains power instead of battery energy preserves range.

8. Travel Lighter and Smarter

• Reduce Unnecessary Loads: Every extra kilogram increases energy consumption.
• Coast Where Possible: On motorways, lifting off the accelerator to coast can help conserve battery power.
• Turn Off Unnecessary Features: Lights, entertainment systems, and even windshield wipers use battery power.

9. Use Efficient Driving Features

Most EVs offer driving aids to boost efficiency, such as:

• Energy Consumption Displays: Track how driving habits affect range.
• Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains steady speeds for better efficiency.
• Predictive Navigation: Suggests routes that optimise battery use.

10. Follow EV Charging Etiquette

When using public chargers, be mindful of other EV drivers:

• Move Your Car After Charging: Don’t occupy charging spaces longer than necessary.
• Prioritise Slow Charging When Possible: Fast chargers are best reserved for long trips.
• Check for Availability Before Arriving: Apps can show real-time charger status to avoid delays.

Maximise Your EV's Potential

By following these best practices, you can extend your EV’s battery life, increase range, and reduce running costs. Whether you drive an Audi Q4 e-tron and Volkswagen ID. Buzz, smart charging habits, smooth driving, and efficient climate control can make every kWh count.

For more EV tips and advice, visit the Drift Bridge Group website and explore our latest electric vehicle offerings.