It’s true what they say, “Electric cars are the future.” And with that future comes the need to explore all things EV. Electric vehicle enthusiasts and those who are exploring the world of electric cars really want to know one thing most of all and that’s just how far you can go on a single charge.
So today, we’ll be talking about electric vehicle range. In this guide, we’ll provide you with everything you need to know about EVs in 2024. From the factors that influence EV range to real-world user experiences, and even tips on just how to get the most out of your EV, we’re going “all-in.” If you’re ready to become an expert on the range of an electric car, then let’s hit the road!
To get the most out of your EV, you really need to understand what influences the range you get out of these vehicles. These factors are grouped into 3 categories: environmental, technological, and driving habits. When you understand how these affect your EV range, you’ll be better equipped to maximise your ride’s potential, making it more efficient for the long-haul.
The environment plays a huge role in just how far your EV can travel on a single charge. Temperature can be a major influence. For instance, cold weather tends to reduce battery efficiency. This means you’ll get fewer miles per charge. On the other side of things, extremely hot weather can stress the battery and potentially lower its performance. Terrain matters as well. Hilly areas will require more energy from the battery for climbing, while flat terrain is easier on your battery, and allows you to go further. Have a look at the chart below for more details on environmental impact:
| Factor | Description | Example Impact |
| Temperature | Both hot and cold temperatures significantly affect battery performance, impacting how far an EV can travel on a single charge. | Cold weather can reduce battery efficiency by up to 21.2%, while hot weather can force battery management systems to use more power for cooling. |
| Terrain | The type of terrain over which an EV is driven, such as hilly or flat terrains, influences its energy consumption and range. | Hilly terrain increases power consumption due to the energy required to ascend slopes, reducing range; flat terrain allows for more efficient driving and a higher range. |
Technological Factors
Technological advancements are constantly improving the average range of an electric car. This makes the type of battery your EV uses one of the most important factors to take into consideration. That said, larger, more efficient batteries can store more energy and give you a longer EV range. Innovations in battery technology, such as solid-state batteries are promising greater improvements as we look towards the future. Another marvel to take note of is regenerative braking, as it aims to extend your electric vehicle range. By converting the energy usually lost during braking back into battery power, your EV can travel further on the same charge.
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Another factor that affects your EV range is your driving habits. Things like speeding, accelerating rapidly, and hard braking all consume more energy. This makes it important to adopt a smoother driving style. A great way to do this is by practising things like moderate speeds, gentle acceleration, and gradual braking. If you do all these things, your battery can last much longer. Proper maintenance also plays a role. So be sure to check your tire pressure, keep your EV in good condition, and follow recommended service schedules. That way, you’ll continue to get the most out of your vehicle.
As long as you understand these important factors, your EV will perform optimally and you’ll be able to enjoy the best electric vehicle range.
To uncover everything you wish to know about electric vehicle range, it’s important to look at things like usage and real-world scenarios. Below, we’ll take a closer look at the best ways to gather intel on EV range:
When it comes to the longest range EVs, there tends to be a gap between what manufacturers claim, and what the reality truly is. These discrepancies arise because standardised tests like the Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP), are conducted under the most ideal conditions. In conditions such as this, it doesn’t necessarily reflect everyday realistic driving scenarios. It’s important to understand this major difference in order to set real expectations and in turn, get the most out of your electric vehicle range.
In March of 2024, the magazine, WhatCar? conducted tests and found that the average range of an electric car is up to a third less than that of what’s advertised by the manufacturers. Their tests considered different driving conditions and behaviours, which paints a more accurate picture of what you can come to expect when it comes to EV range.
Temperature plays a key role in the way an EV performs and just how far it goes for one trip. In the Summertime, EVs tend to do better with warmer temps optimising the battery. According to a June 2024 study by Recurrent, they’ve found that EVs are working well in hot conditions during the Summer time and that their EV range loss is only around 2-5% in hot weather below 90F (32℃). In very hot weather, 95F (35℃) to 100F (38℃), the electric vehicle range loss is between 15-31%.
In the winter, however, the battery’s chemical reactions slow down. This reduces efficiency and range. Back in January 2024, Recurrent performed a similar study and found that electric cars react to winter in different ways. The 18 popular EV models they tested had an average of 70.3% of their electric vehicle range, although they each performed differently.
Another impact on the range of an electric car is the driving conditions. Let’s take a look at the differences below:
When it comes to gathering intel on the longest range EVs, listening to real user experiences is a great way to see just what you can expect from your EV. Many users share their practical tips and challenges, helping buyers set some realistic expectations. Online forums like Reddit and Quora are great places to start digging.
Some EV drivers report discrepancies between claimed and actual EV range. According to a 2023 Consumer Reports study, EVs don’t always achieve their driving ranges. This could be a potential issue for owners that could find themselves running out of juice quicker than they’d like. In fact, Telegraph readers have expressed concerns about range anxiety and charger availability which can have quite an impact on the convenience of owning an EV.
And while Soly doesn’t offer EV chargers, we understand the benefits of solar energy for EV owners. Have a look at our Soly Customer Story: Gordon’s Well-Researched Solar Project to learn more.
In spite of some negative feedback, many EV owners have a satisfactory report on their EV range, especially when they have home charging setups. The convenience of plugging in your car overnight and starting each day with a full charge is a significant advantage. In fact, these positive experiences often emphasise the cost savings and environmental benefits of driving electric.
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In 2024, choosing electric cars with the longest range has become a top priority. Let’s take a peak below at some of the models that are holding claims as the longest range EVs, according to Pod Point:
The Mercedes-Benz EQS Saloon is a luxury EV. As one of the cars with the longest range, it goes over 400 miles, redefining what’s possible for electric driving. The EQS features aerodynamics and an advanced battery system.
Tesla has, and will continue to be a pioneer in the EV market. The Model 3 Long Range boasts being a long range electric car. In fact, it’s in the name. And with an EV range of 390 miles, it’s one of the most versatile for drivers needing range and performance. Model 3’s Supercharger network boosts its appeal, allowing quick and easy charging on long trips.
As a newcomer, the Fisker Ocean Extreme is among our list of long range electric cars that’s a pretty stylish SUV too. This model is projected to provide around 440 miles according to Pod Point. It’s designed with eco-friendly features and a solar roof to help extend its EV range even further.
It’s obvious that the future is continuously shining bright when it comes to cars with the longest range, as mentioned above. But, what exactly does the future hold? Let’s take a look below:
As EVs continue to evolve with cutting-edge tech that boosts efficiency and extend EV range, two key areas are leading the charge:
In order to support extended EV ranges, government policies and infrastructure developments play a key role. Expanding public charging networks along with offering incentives for EV adoptions are imperative to the progress:
Even with the future trends, it’s important to focus in-the-now, and understand battery health and how to extend the average range of an electric car, with proper maintenance:
Over time, all batteries are bound to degrade. This can reduce electric vehicle range. Factors like the number of charge cycles, exposure to extreme temperatures, and charging habits influence battery degradation.
You can prolong battery life by keeping deep discharge cycles to a bare minimum. For daily use, charging to around 80% and avoiding frequent full discharges can reduce stress on the battery and maintain its capacity over time. Additionally, you can extend battery life by avoiding extreme temperatures.
Range anxiety stems from the fear of running out of charge before reaching a charging point or destination. This concern is more common among new EV users who are unfamiliar with their vehicle’s range capabilities.
Causes of Range Anxiety:
Importantly, studies are suggesting that range anxiety tends to be more of a perceived issue than a real problem for regular EV users. Once they become familiar with the vehicle’s range, they’re not as concerned as they once were.
The total cost of owning an EV includes purchase price, charging costs, and maintenance expenses. The cars with the longest range tend to cost more upfront, but offer more savings in the long run.
The longest range EVs will generally have much higher purchase prices. This is due to the larger and more advanced batteries. For example, the Mercedes-Benz EQS has an EV range of 452 miles, and is priced higher than many mid-range EVs.
Charging costs will differ, based on whether you’re at home or using public stations:
EVs generally have lower maintenance costs compared to ICE vehicles. This is because they have fewer moving parts and less frequent servicing needs.
The EV you choose should be based on your driving habits. This means you should consider daily commutes, long-distance travel, and availability of charging stations, at home and along your route.
Most of the time, daily commutes can use an EV range of 150-300 miles. That should cover the average distance and provide a buffer for any unexpected trips.
If you take frequent, long trips, consider an EV with a range of over 300 miles or plan to make regular charging stops.
We’ve covered a good bit of ground today on all things pertaining to electric vehicle range. Here’s your key takeaways to keep in mind:
It’s easy to see that the way of the future is becoming much more evident these days. And from our guide to all things on electric vehicle range, we hope you’ve learned a thing or two. We know it’s a great deal of knowledge to take in. Just remember that whether you’re a current EV owner or thinking of switching to an EV, staying informed and proactive is really going to help you get the most out of your vehicle.
At Soly, we are committed to supporting your journey towards a more sustainable future. Our comprehensive solar energy solutions can complement your EV ownership by providing renewable energy for your home charging stations. By integrating solar panels and battery storage, you can reduce your reliance on the grid, lower your charging costs, and enhance the sustainability of your transportation choices.
Discover more about how solar energy can benefit your EV charging needs in our blog: How Much CO2 Emissions Can Be Saved with Solar Panels?
If you’re interested in integrating solar energy with your EVs, and have a little time on your hands, be sure to check out this blog as well on UK Solar Panel Prices 2024.
By leveraging Soly’s expertise in solar energy, you can achieve greater energy independence and contribute to a more sustainable future. Ready to make the switch? Contact us today to learn how we can help you power your electric vehicle with clean, renewable energy.
