What really impacts your EV range?

 

For many EV drivers, the first thought when range drops are to blame the weather. It’s a common concern, especially during a heatwave when the air conditioning is working overtime or in the winter months when the heating is.

 

The reality is more surprising.

 

Recent studies show driving speed has a far greater impact on EV range, particularly on longer journeys and in larger vehicles such as vans. With the UK recently experiencing record heat and winter fast approaching, understanding how different factors affect range is more important than ever for both drivers and fleet operators.

 

Why speed matters more than heat

Heat does play a role in EV performance, but its effect is most noticeable at lower speeds, where the relative draw from air conditioning is proportionally higher. Once you get up to motorway speeds and higher, the additional energy used by the A/C becomes almost unnoticeable compared to another factor: aerodynamic drag.

Aerodynamic drag increase means that as you drive faster, your vehicle must work disproportionately harder to push through the air. So, in layman’s terms, go slower to go further.

 

The results are clear:

• An electric van with a range of 143 miles at 50mph drops to just 88 miles at 80mph, a 39% reduction.
• Slowing down by just 10 - 15mph can extend range by 20 - 30%, a huge difference on longer trips.

 

Practical tips to maximise your EV range

Here are some proven strategies to get more miles out of your range:

• Driving a little slower on motorways can significantly extend your range.
• Use navigation tools that factor in charging stations and energy use.
• Pre-condition your vehicle while plugged in and use eco or recirculation modes to reduce A/C load.
• Correct tyre pressure reduces rolling resistance and helps efficiency.
• Extra weight means extra energy use. Clear out unnecessary cargo when possible.
• Avoid harsh acceleration and braking to conserve energy.

 

Smarter driving for bigger benefits

 

The key takeaway is simple: driving habits matter more than the weather when it comes to EV range. By managing speed and adopting a few efficient driving practices, EV drivers can go further on a single charge.

 

For fleets, this translates into less downtime at charging stations and lower operating costs.

How Northgate can help

Our Safe Driver programme equips your drivers with the knowledge to minimise road risks through expert online courses. Additionally, we offer a variety of compliance checks, including automated Driving Licence and Grey Fleet Checks, and provide a comprehensive driver risk profile to give you full visibility into your drivers’ strengths and weaknesses on the road.

Drive to Zero with added Northgate value

Our exclusive EV hire offer* gives you a choice of:

• Up to £1,300 off home charger installation
• Up to £1,300 off workplace charger installation
• Free 1-to-1 EV driver training to help your team get the most out of every mile

Optimised charging solutions, reduced downtime, and smoother transitions. Find out more and start customising your EV hire package today.

*One offer per eligible vehicle hired on 12months+. T&Cs apply.

Source: https://evfleetworld.co.uk/speed-has-greater-impact-on-ev-range-than-heat-geotab-reveals/