If you are here, you are thinking about getting a new car, or you are already an owner of an electric car. Maybe you are wondering whether buying an electric car makes sense. Or maybe you need some tips to make your driving experience easier and more satisfying? Based on the latest survey provided by the Electric Vehicle Council, almost 54% of people would consider buying an EV as their next car. That is because experts believe that EVs are the future and will eventually overcome traditional vehicles.
We also know that it might be confusing for some people to understand how electric vehicles (EVs) work, how they differ from hybrid models and, more importantly, why choosing an EV is the smart decision. However, knowing this will help you get a clear picture of whether you need to buy an EV as well as how you can better manage your new car. Below you will see the definition of EV, some differences between this car and other models and explore 10 simple tips you need to know before going electric.
What is an Electric Vehicle?
Electric vehicles (more known as EVs) rely on a battery instead of a gasoline tank, an electric motor or an internal combustion engine. Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (shortly PHEVs) rely on gasoline and a battery, representing a combination of gasoline and electric vehicle. Therefore, these cars use both gasoline and electricity as fuel sources.
10 Tips for New EV Owners
Know Your Vehicle’s Settings
We all know that each EV model has different modes that affect performance and power usage. For instance, the most popular EV Tesla Model S can go from zero to 60 miles per hour in just 2.5 seconds in Ludicrous Mode, though it also means giving up range. Thus, it is highly recommended to explore your new car’s settings before you can benefit from the car’s capabilities.
Plan Your Route
Even though electric cars are gaining popularity, it is still hard to find EV charging stations UK and around the world. While the situation seems to change in upcoming years, modern owners should always plan their routes since their batteries may blow off the stream in the most unexpected situation.
Also, it is a great idea to use a car charging app that maps out all the local charging points and allows you to easily and quickly plug in your car without wasting time trailing around.
Install a Charger at Home
When buying an electric vehicle, you may worry about finding a place to charge your car if you don’t have a station near your home. That is why installing a charger at home will be the most convenient option. Since it may take 24 hours to fully charge your car, installing a 240-volt outlet and a Level 2 charger will let you reduce this time.
Respect Others
When using a regular car, you always share public chargers. But with electric cars, it is even more essential since there is a small number of charging stations available today. That is why you should follow a golden rule. You wouldn’t like to be kept waiting as someone else is hogging the outlet. That is why you should always move your car when you’re finished charging.
Empty Out the Trunk
Like any car, an electric vehicle runs more efficiently and longer when it’s not weighed down. If you want to get the fullest range out of the charge, we recommend you remove all heavy items you don’t need from the trunk.
Perform Regular Maintenance
Maintenance is the key to a positive driving experience. Even though EVs usually require much less work than gasoline-powered vehicles, some basic care is still essential. For example, you need to keep the tires inflated and always change the air filter and fluid levels.
Take Care of the Battery in Winter
It is especially vital during cold times to keep an eye on your power. Since the heating system will use much more power from the battery, it won’t function as efficiently in chilly weather. That is why we always recommend being careful with the battery life during winter and making sure it is fully charged before driving. You can also switch the car into the eco mode as has been shown to most efficiently deal with this issue.
Take Care of Regenerative Braking
Since regenerative braking systems in electric vehicles are perfect for preserving charge, returning a large per cent of the energy lost when you slow down. Based on driving conditions, the type of your electric vehicle and the vehicle’s size, taking care of regenerative braking can become an excellent benefit for driving range.
Take a Portable EV Charger
When you go on long journeys, we recommend you take portable charging for your electric vehicle. That is because, in case of an unpredicted situation or emergencies, you will like the idea of having extra power with you. For example, you can choose a 240-volt outlet, which will allow you to get three times the charging speed as a Level 1 cord set.
Change Fluids Regularly
Electric cars are developed with internal thermal management systems, meaning one element of traditional cars that EVs also does come with is the coolant. Therefore, this fluid and the brake fluid require regular attention. Since their containers can be easily accessed, you can do it by yourself without hard work. It is also worth noting that you will also need to add windshield wiper fluid to your electric vehicle at regular intervals.
Final Thoughts
Electric cars are gaining popularity as a cost-efficient and eco-friendly way to reach the needed destination. At the same time, they come with their own downsides since the market is new and more things have to be developed to provide the best driving experience. Whether you just bought a new electric car or are considering buying it, these tips will be helpful.
