Electric vehicles (EVs) are transforming the driving experience, offering a cleaner, quieter, and more sustainable alternative to gas-powered cars. But just like with any vehicle, how you drive and take care of your EV can make a big difference in how far you can go on a single charge.
Whether you’re commuting to work, taking a weekend getaway, or heading out on a long road trip, knowing how to get the most out of your EV’s range will help you drive more efficiently, reduce charging stops, and take better care of your battery. This guide walks you through practical ways to maximize your EV range—without overcomplicating things. Want to learn what EV range really means and what affects it? Check out our blog on Understanding EV Range.
1. Drive Smart: Efficient Habits Behind the Wheel
The way you drive has a direct impact on your EV’s energy use. Even small changes can make a noticeable difference.
Accelerate Gradually
Fast acceleration may be fun, but it drains your battery quickly. Smooth, gradual acceleration uses less power and helps your EV run more efficiently—especially in city driving.
Maintain a Steady Speed
Sudden speed changes and unnecessary braking waste energy. On highways, use cruise control whenever possible to maintain a steady pace and conserve battery.
Avoid High Speeds
EVs are most efficient at moderate speeds—typically between 40 and 60 mph (60–90 km/h). Once you go beyond that, aerodynamic drag increases, which forces your EV to work harder and consume more energy.
Use Regenerative Braking
Most EVs come with regenerative braking, a system that recovers energy when you slow down. Take advantage of it by easing off the accelerator early rather than hitting the brake hard. If your EV has one-pedal driving, it’s a great way to maximize energy recovery.
Minimize Unnecessary Idling
While EVs don’t idle in the traditional sense, leaving the vehicle on while parked still uses energy to power onboard systems. If you’re waiting in the car for an extended time, it’s best to turn the vehicle off to avoid unnecessary battery drain.
2. Use Climate Control Wisely
Heating and air conditioning can be big battery drains. Using climate systems more efficiently can help extend your range.
Precondition While Plugged In
Before you hit the road, use your EV’s preconditioning feature while the car is still charging. This warms or cools the cabin using power from the grid instead of the battery.
Use Heated Seats and Steering Wheel
In cold weather, it’s more energy-efficient to warm yourself directly than to heat the entire cabin. Heated seats and steering wheels use significantly less energy than the heater.
Dress for the Weather
It might sound obvious, but dressing appropriately—wearing layers in winter or breathable fabrics in summer—lets you rely less on climate control for short trips.
Use Ventilation Instead of Full A/C
In mild weather, crack the windows or use the fan instead of turning on full air conditioning. It’s a simple way to stay comfortable and save energy.
Park Smart
Whenever possible, park in the shade during summer or in a garage during winter to naturally regulate cabin temperature. That way, your EV doesn’t have to work as hard to adjust the interior climate when you start driving.
3. Plan Your Route with Efficiency in Mind
Smart route planning can help reduce energy use and give you peace of mind during longer trips.
Avoid Steep Hills When Possible
Driving uphill uses more energy. While you might not be able to avoid elevation changes entirely, try choosing flatter routes when efficiency is a priority.
Use EV-Friendly Navigation Tools
Many EVs include navigation systems that calculate routes based on battery level, elevation, and available charging stations. You can also use apps like Allego map or Smoov to find charging locations and plan stops efficiently.
Factor in Traffic Conditions
Stop-and-go traffic drains your battery faster than steady driving. Use real-time traffic updates to find smoother routes, even if they’re a bit longer distance-wise.
Avoid Last-Minute Planning
Starting your trip without knowing where you’ll charge can lead to range anxiety. Mapping out your charging stops—even for short trips—can help you drive more confidently.
4. Keep Your EV in Good Condition
Regular maintenance plays an important role in keeping your EV efficient and extending its range.
Check Tire Pressure Regularly
Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing your EV to use more energy. Check your tire pressure monthly and keep it at the recommended level.
Update Your Software
Automakers often release software updates that improve battery management, charging performance, and energy efficiency. Make sure your EV is up to date to take advantage of these improvements.
Avoid Carrying Extra Weight
Every pound counts. Remove unnecessary items from the trunk or back seat and avoid roof racks or storage boxes unless you really need them—they increase drag and reduce range.
Keep Up with Regular Service
Even though EVs require less maintenance than traditional cars, things like brake checks, tire rotation, and battery diagnostics still matter. A healthy EV performs more efficiently.
5. Monitor Your Energy Use and Adjust
One of the great things about EVs is how much real-time feedback they give you. Learning to read this data can help you adapt your driving habits and save energy.
Watch Your Efficiency Display
Most EV dashboards show how much energy you’re using, either in real time or as an average over your trip. If you notice a spike in consumption, ease off the accelerator or turn off high-drain features like full A/C.
Review Trip Summaries
Some EVs and apps offer detailed trip reports that show your efficiency, regenerative braking stats, and more. Use this information to spot patterns and make better decisions for your next drive.
Adjust Based on Conditions
If you’re carrying extra weight, driving in extreme temperatures, or navigating hilly terrain, expect your range to drop a bit. Monitoring your usage helps you stay one step ahead and avoid surprises.
Bonus Tip: Use Eco Mode and/or Cruise Control
Most EVs offer an “Eco Mode” or Cruise Control that adjusts the vehicle’s behavior to prioritize efficiency.
Eco Mode can:
- Limit acceleration to reduce energy use
- Adjust climate control settings to conserve battery
- Increase regenerative braking in some vehicles
It’s especially helpful for city driving, low-speed routes, or when you’re trying to stretch your remaining range.
EV Range FAQs
Q: How much range can I expect to lose in winter?
EV range can drop by 15% to 30% in cold weather due to lower battery efficiency and increased use of heating. Preconditioning and driving more conservatively can help minimize the impact.
Q: Does charging to 100% reduce battery life?
Occasionally charging to 100% is fine—especially for long trips—but it’s best to stay within 20–80% for daily driving to reduce battery wear over time.
Q: Do all EVs support regenerative braking?
Most modern EVs do, but the level of control and customization options vary by model. Some offer multiple regen settings or one-pedal driving for enhanced recovery.
Final Thoughts: Small Changes, Big Impact
Getting the most out of your EV’s range doesn’t require deep technical knowledge—it just takes awareness, good habits, and a little planning. By driving efficiently, managing energy use, and taking care of your vehicle, you’ll enjoy smoother journeys and fewer charging stops.
Ready to take your range further? Use the Allego map to find fast and regular chargers across Europe and make every trip efficient, convenient, and stress-free.