When switching to or owning an electric car, there are several common mistakes that drivers might make
Being aware of these can help ensure a smoother and more enjoyable EV experience. Here are some typical mistakes and tips on how to avoid them.
Ignoring Range Limitations
Mistake: Underestimating the importance of range and not planning trips according to the car’s battery capacity.
Tip: Be aware of your vehicle’s range and plan trips accordingly. Make use of route planning tools that can help you locate charging stations along your route.
Improper Charging Habits
Mistake: Not understanding the different types of charging (Level 1, Level 2, and DC fast charging) and using inappropriate charging methods.
Tip: Familiarize yourself with your car’s charging capabilities and the types of chargers available. Use Level 2 chargers for regular home charging and save DC fast chargers for long trips to avoid potential long-term battery degradation.
Neglecting Home Charging Setup
Mistake: Assuming that a standard household outlet (Level 1) is sufficient without considering the benefits of installing a Level 2 charger at home.
Tip: Consider installing a Level 2 home charger for faster and more efficient charging. It’s an investment that can significantly improve the convenience of owning an EV.
Overlooking Charging Network Memberships
Mistake: Not signing up for charging network memberships or apps that can provide access to a wide network of charging stations.
Tip: Register for multiple charging networks to ensure you have access to a wide range of charging stations. Use apps like PlugShare, ChargePoint, and Electrify America to find nearby chargers and plan your charging stops. Driving Like a Gasoline Car.
Mistake: Driving habits that are not optimized for electric vehicles, such as rapid acceleration and heavy braking.
Tip: Adopt smooth driving habits to maximize range and efficiency. Take advantage of regenerative braking to recover energy and extend battery.
Ignoring Battery Maintenance
Mistake: Not paying attention to battery health, which can lead to reduced range and performance over time.
Tip: Avoid frequent deep discharges and try to keep the battery charged between 20% and 80% for regular use. Use fast charging sparingly and keep the car plugged in during extreme temperatures to maintain battery health.
Not Using Preconditioning
Mistake: Forgetting to use the preconditioning feature to warm up or cool down the car while it’s still plugged in.
Tip: Use the preconditioning feature to heat or cool the car while it’s plugged in, which can help preserve battery range and improve comfort.
Underestimating Impact of Weather
Mistake: Not considering the impact of extreme temperatures on battery performance and range.
Tip: Be aware that extreme cold or heat can affect battery efficiency. Plan for reduced range in such conditions and use preconditioning to mitigate some of the effects.
Neglecting Regular Software Updates
Mistake: Ignoring or delaying software updates, which can provide important improvements and new features.
Tip: Regularly check for and install software updates provided by the manufacturer to ensure your EV has the latest features, improvements, and security updates.
Skipping Test Drives
Mistake: Not taking an adequate test drive to understand the unique driving characteristics of an EV.
Tip: Take a thorough test drive to get a feel for regenerative braking, acceleration, and overall handling. This will help you become more comfortable with the differences between an EV and a gasoline car.
Conclusion
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can enjoy a more efficient, convenient, and enjoyable experience with your electric vehicle. Proper planning, regular maintenance, and adapting to the unique characteristics of EVs are key to maximizing their benefits.
