How To Drive An EV Efficiently & Maximise Your Range

Last Updated: 21st March 2025

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• Accelerate Gently For Better Efficiency
• Reduce Climate Control Usage
• Use Regenerative Braking To Recharge Your Battery
• Plan Your Journey Wisely
• Keep Your Tyres Inflated

Accelerate Gently For Better Efficiency

One of the easiest ways to extend your EV’s range is to drive smoothly. Unlike petrol or diesel vehicles, EVs deliver instant torque, making rapid acceleration tempting. However, aggressive acceleration and sudden braking use more energy, depleting your battery faster. To drive efficiently:

• Press the accelerator gradually.
• Avoid sudden stops, and coast when possible.
• Use eco-driving modes if your EV has them.

Reduce Climate Control Usage

Heating and air conditioning can drain your battery, reducing your overall range. To keep energy consumption low:

• Precondition your EV while it's still plugged in, this allows the car to reach a comfortable temperature without using battery power.
• Use heated seats and steering wheels (if available) instead of full cabin heating, as they consume less energy.
• Open windows for ventilation instead of air conditioning when possible.

For more on how EV running costs, check out How much does it cost to run and charge an EV?

Use Regenerative Braking To Recharge Your Battery

Regenerative braking helps convert kinetic energy into battery power every time you slow down. Instead of applying the brake pedal, simply lift your foot off the accelerator, allowing the motor to slow the car and recover energy. Many EVs allow you to adjust regenerative braking settings, opting for a stronger setting can help extend your range. This not only improves efficiency but also reduces wear on your brakes.

Plan Your Journey Wisely

A well-planned route can make a big difference in how efficiently you drive and whether you need to stop charging. Here’s how to optimise your trips:

• Use EV route planning apps like Zapmap, Waze, or Google Maps to find charging stations along the way.
• Avoid unnecessary detours and stop-start traffic to conserve energy.
• Check elevation changes, hilly routes may consume more battery, while downhill driving can boost range with regenerative braking.

Keep Your Tyres Inflated

Under-inflated tyres increase rolling resistance, making your EV work harder and reducing efficiency. To maintain peak performance:

• Check tyre pressure regularly (recommended levels are in your car’s manual or on the driver’s side door frame).
• Use low rolling resistance tyres if your EV supports them, they help improve efficiency.

Driving an EV efficiently is all about smooth acceleration, smart braking, and mindful energy use. By following these tips, you can extend your range, reduce charging stops, and enjoy a more cost-effective driving experience.