Making The Most of Your New Electric Vehicle: Key Things to Think About
/Getting an electric vehicle can provide you with a range of benefits, such as a better impact on the environment, lower running costs, less noise, and more. If you have just bought a new electric vehicle, you may be wondering what you can do to maximize its range and make the most of it. There are a few key things that you will need to consider to ensure your vehicle lasts as long as possible. For example, you should be aware of the most common pitfalls and problems that you may experience as an electric car owner. To find out more about electric vehicles, check out our top tips on taking proper care of your new car.
Drive at Lower Speeds
One of the best ways to bolster your battery range is to focus on driving at lower speeds as much as possible. Therefore, it may be best to choose routes that allow you to drive steadily, even if they take slightly more time. If you want to travel faster, it’s advisable to keep your speed constant. This is because the faster you go, the more energy you will use, which can affect your battery range. Make sure you take some time to adjust your driving style and watch your speed if you are not used to it.
Find The Right Car Insurance
It’s important to ensure that you are protected in case of an accident. Therefore, you should look for a suitable insurance cover, which will help you protect more than just your vehicle. You can get car insurance from The Hartford, where you can choose from a broad selection of coverages. Find out more about insurance coverage for cars offered by The Hartford and design the right solution for you.
Maintain Your Electric Vehicle
Although you might not need to worry about maintenance as much when compared to a gas-powered car, you will still need to follow a few maintenance rules. It’s crucial to keep your vehicle in good working order by tending to the tires and checking the air pressure frequently. If you are driving your electric vehicle with under-inflated tires, this will only increase its energy consumption. Other key things to remember include replacing your car’s wiper fluid and having your vehicle examined, if you suspect any issues.
Extend Your Battery Life
If you want to extend your car’s battery life, you should refrain from charging your battery all the time and take proper care of it. Keep in mind that overcharging your electric vehicle’s battery can lead to a variety of problems. Therefore, you should always try to charge your battery to about 80%. The only time you should be charging to 100% is when you are about to go on a longer trip. At the same time, you should be careful not to leave your car with little or no charge for a long time, as this can also have a negative impact on your vehicle’s performance.
Building an electric carport in your garage can offer several benefits. First, it provides a convenient and secure place to charge your electric vehicle (EV) at home. This eliminates the need to rely solely on public charging stations, which can be limited in availability and may require long waiting times. Second, having a dedicated charging point in your garage allows for faster and more efficient charging, as it can be set up with a higher-powered charger than what is typically found in public stations. This means you can quickly and easily charge your EV overnight, ensuring it is ready for use each day. Third, having an electric carport in your garage can provide protection from the elements, such as rain, snow, or extreme heat, which can extend the lifespan of your vehicle's battery and overall performance. Finally, having an electric charging station in your garage may even increase the value of your property!
Get Your Motor Serviced
Another crucial element of your electric vehicle’s maintenance is the motor itself. You will have fewer parts to deal with, so this will make things easier. However, it’s still important to get your motor serviced regularly, just like you would with a traditional gas engine. To ensure everything goes smoothly, it might be beneficial to find a mechanic who has plenty of experience dealing with electric car motors. This means that you can rely on them when it comes to other issues that may arise with your vehicle.
Be Careful Where You Park
Make sure you always park your vehicle in the shade, if possible. Not only will this ensure that your car’s temperature remains comfortable, but it can also be a great strategy to keep your battery running for longer. In comparison, if you park your car in a hot spot on a sunny day, your battery may overheat, which means that you might come back to a lower battery than you had when you left. Additionally, when charging outside, give yourself extra time if the weather is hot, as the heat might make it more difficult for your car to charge straightaway.
Store Your Vehicle Properly
Going somewhere far away on holiday means that you will need to think about where you are going to store your electric vehicle. It’s advisable to look at a few different storage options instead of leaving it in an uncovered parking space somewhere. Also, it’s best not to leave your vehicle in an airport parking lot. You may want to set the car to charge only until halfway or less, depending on how long you are going to be gone. This means that it’s unlikely to get overcharged, even if you leave it plugged in. If you are going on a longer trip, it might be a good idea to ask someone to unplug your vehicle while you are away.
Be Mindful of Temperature
Electric vehicles can sometimes be sensitive to extreme temperatures, both hot and cold. When it's very hot outside, it's advisable to use the vehicle's air conditioning system to help keep the battery cool. On the other hand, when it's very cold, the car's heater should be used instead to keep the battery at a suitable temperature. However, keep in mind that using these systems will consume additional energy and affect your battery's range, so be mindful of this when using them.
Plan Your Route Ahead
It's important to plan your route ahead, especially if you're going on a longer trip. This can help you find the most efficient and convenient charging stations along the way. Some electric vehicles come with built-in navigation systems that can help you plan your route and identify charging stations. Alternatively, you can use apps or websites that provide information about charging stations and their locations. Keep in mind that not all charging stations are the same, and some may offer faster charging times than others, so make sure to research and plan ahead.
Consider Upgrading Your Home Charging System
While most electric vehicles come with a charging cable that can be plugged into a standard wall outlet, it may be beneficial to consider upgrading your home charging system for faster and more efficient charging. A Level 2 charging system can provide up to four times faster charging than a standard wall outlet, which can be especially useful for drivers who have longer commutes or who need to charge their vehicle more frequently. Make sure to have a professional electrician install the system to ensure safety and efficiency.
Join an Electric Vehicle Community
Joining an electric vehicle community can be a great way to learn more about your vehicle and connect with other electric vehicle owners. These communities often have forums, social media groups and events where you can ask questions, share tips and experiences, and learn from others. Being part of a community can also provide you with a sense of support and motivation to continue your journey with your electric vehicle.
Final Thoughts
Getting an electric vehicle can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it also comes with its own set of unique challenges and considerations. By following these tips and being mindful of your driving habits and maintenance routine, you can maximize the benefits of your electric vehicle and ensure that it lasts as long as possible. Remember to plan ahead, be mindful of temperature, and consider upgrading your charging system if needed. With proper care and attention, your electric vehicle can provide you with a reliable and sustainable mode of transportation for years to come.
About the Author:
Jacob Robinson is a freelance business writer with over 5 years of experience. Born in Nottingham, United Kingdom, Jacob specialises in writing about the lifestyle and fashion industry, and takes his interest from his time at Manchester University studying journalism.
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