Switching over to an electric vehicle is really exciting, but there is a little bit of a learning curve, especially when it comes to maximizing the effectiveness of your charge. At Kool Chevrolet, we talk to new EV owners almost every week, and there are always questions about how to stretch the range just a little further. It all comes down to forming small, simple habits.
Whether you’re an existing Chevy EV customer or still wondering whether to take the plunge, we want to provide a guide that explains what range really means and how to manage it with confidence.
Key Takeaways
- Ease off the line and coast to stops to take advantage of regenerative braking.
- Hold a steady speed on the highway — cruise control makes it easier.
- Charge to around 80% for daily driving and save a full charge for longer trips.
- Precondition the cabin while plugged in so you start with a higher state of charge.
- Plan charging stops ahead using your EV’s built-in navigation.
- Keep tires properly inflated and stay on your recommended maintenance schedule.
Understanding What Actually Drains Your Battery
Before considering all the things you can do to increase your range, it helps to understand what’s actually working against your range in the first place. Speed is more important than most new owners realize. It takes much more energy to drive at highway speeds, where air resistance is considerably higher than during urban driving. Battery energy consumption is also increased during frequent hard acceleration and braking compared to smooth driving.
Cold weather has a double-whammy effect on battery performance: the battery does not work as efficiently, and it takes more energy to heat the cabin in the winter. High temperatures can affect range somewhat as well, with air conditioning being the most common cause, but usually not as severely as cold weather.
Driving Habits That Help Preserve Range
Once you know what drains your battery, making a few changes is pretty easy. For example, accelerating slowly rather than flooring it straight off the line when the light changes can make a difference. Coasting to stop signs and red lights instead of hitting the brakes can also help, because many Chevy EVs utilize regenerative braking to recapture energy while slowing down and put a little charge back into the battery instead of wasting that energy as heat.
Maintaining a constant speed on the highway, rather than constantly accelerating and braking, will usually provide increased range. If you need to be on the highway for extended periods of time, cruise control can make it easier to maintain a steady speed without having to think about it.
Smart Charging Habits Can Make a Difference
Where, how, and when you charge is arguably as important as how you drive. It’s not always necessary to fully charge your car, and many owners don’t bother charging to 100% for daily driving, often recharging to around 80%. This can generally be better for the battery pack over many charging cycles while also making it easier to manage your daily charging needs. However, it can be beneficial to save a full charge for longer trips when you need the additional range.
Another useful trick is preconditioning the vehicle while it is plugged in. This allows you to preheat or precool the cabin using electricity from the grid rather than electricity from the battery. As a result, you can start your trip with a higher state of charge than you would if you began with an unheated or uncooled vehicle.
Finding a Charging Station Near Me
One of the most common questions we get from new EV owners is how to find a charging station near me when they leave home. The good news is that public charging networks have grown quite a bit. Most Chevy EVs have built-in navigation that may show available charging stations along the route, as well as their live availability.
Planning your trip ahead of time can save you a lot of trouble rather than waiting until your battery is low to find the nearest charging station. Knowing in advance where your charging stops are can help you avoid unnecessary detours and make longer trips feel much less stressful.
Tire Pressure and Maintenance Matter More Than You’d Think
Proper tire pressure is important for achieving good range, since underinflated tires have greater rolling resistance. This means that maintaining a given speed requires more energy than it would with properly inflated tires. Every now and then, it’s a good idea to check your tire pressure. It’s a small, convenient habit that can help you get a little more range.
Regular maintenance, such as keeping up with the recommended service schedule, can also help your vehicle operate efficiently.
Thinking of Switching to a Chevy EV?
Still driving a gas-powered vehicle? If you’re considering switching to electric, we can help make the transition easier than you might think. A trade-in is a great way to help pay for your next vehicle, whether you’re upgrading to your first Chevy EV or simply curious about what your current vehicle is worth.
If you have any questions about range and charging, or about switching to electric in general, you can come see us here at Kool Chevrolet. We would love to help you find the perfect electric vehicle for your driving needs and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does cold weather reduce Chevy EV range?
Yes. In cold weather the battery does not work as efficiently and more energy is used to heat the cabin, so range typically drops. Preconditioning the cabin while plugged in can help you start a trip with a higher state of charge.
Should I charge my Chevy EV to 100% every day?
Not necessarily. Many owners charge to around 80% for daily driving, which can be better for the battery pack over many charging cycles, and save a full charge for longer trips when the extra range is needed.
How does regenerative braking help range?
Many Chevy EVs use regenerative braking to recapture energy while slowing down, putting a little charge back into the battery instead of wasting it as heat. Coasting to stops instead of braking hard lets you take advantage of it.
How do I find a charging station near me?
Most Chevy EVs have built-in navigation that may show available charging stations along your route, as well as their live availability. Planning your charging stops ahead of time helps you avoid unnecessary detours on longer trips.
Does tire pressure affect EV range?
Yes. Underinflated tires have greater rolling resistance, which requires more energy to maintain speed. Checking your tire pressure regularly is a small, convenient habit that can help you get a little more range.
Can Kool Chevrolet help me switch to a Chevy EV?
Yes. If you’re considering going electric, Kool Chevrolet in Grand Rapids can help make the transition easier, and a trade-in is a great way to help pay for your next vehicle. Stop by with any questions about range, charging, or switching to electric.
Range and charging guidance is general in nature; actual range and results vary with driving conditions, climate, terrain, vehicle configuration, and battery age. Sources: koolchevy.com and official Chevrolet information. Kool Chevrolet, 3770 Plainfield NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525.