Driving an electric car: how to use less energy

An electric car is a great option for enjoying clean driving with no polluting emissions. For that reason, it is an alternative for city driving with conventional combustion-engine cars, and its use is growing little by little. However, there are several things to keep in mind in order to use it correctly. Unlike a combustion-engine car, its range is more limited and the charging process takes longer.

You need to know how to drive an electric car in order to make it as efficient as possible, and to get the most out of every kilometre the energy stored in the battery provides. Efficient driving is important for extending the range of an electric car, and it is essential to know how to use these vehicles correctly in day-to-day life.

Charge and range

All electric cars have a battery charge and range indicator showing the range possible at that charge level. Before setting off, check it. It is better to check it several times than to find that there is not enough charge in the battery to complete the planned journey and run out of energy before finishing.

With this information in mind, it is important to remember that every onboard system consumes energy, and this energy comes from the battery. Using the air conditioning, the multimedia system and the lights, both external and internal, reduces the range of the electric car. You should consider whether it is necessary to use that energy to maintain range or to gain comfort while driving.

A good tip: if there is a chance to charge the battery during a stop, however short, it is advisable to do so. These short charges can add range, especially if you are going to make a long journey. It is always wise to have the greatest possible range and be prepared for any inconvenience.

Knowing the number of kilometres to cover, the charging points you may find along the route and the type of road you will be driving on, you can set off with peace of mind.

ECO mode

The ECO mode fitted to most electric cars adjusts electricity consumption in order to cover the greatest possible number of kilometres. To do this, the use of some of the car’s systems is reduced. On road and city journeys it allows you to gain a few extra kilometres with the same charge and gives better efficiency. It is not advisable to use it when more power is needed, such as on an uphill stretch or in situations requiring extra acceleration.

Avoiding sudden acceleration and braking

Sudden acceleration and braking are not good friends of electric cars. For that reason, try to drive in a way that involves progressive acceleration and braking, letting the motor itself do the work. Regenerative brakes allow the battery to recover some energy, so this should also be taken into account and used efficiently to get the full benefit they offer.

As with any other car, contained and efficient driving can increase the range of an electric car and allow you to get the full performance out of its clean and sustainable electric traction system.