pps-DUEditor
January 16, 2023
New owners of electric vehicles may be aware of their environmental benefits, but they may still need to learn how to make the most of their new cars. We’ve compiled our best tips to help you get started.
Congrats on your decision to trade in that gas guzzler for an electric vehicle! As you know, electric cars are great for the planet. They don’t burn fossil fuels, so they produce fewer emissions and keep us from contributing to climate change.
But as a new EV owner, you might be wondering, ‘How can I get the most out of my new ride? How can I make sure my car is running efficiently and helping the planet at the same time?’
Here are seven ways to help you fit your electric vehicle into your everyday life.
Know Your Car’s Settings
Your car’s different drive modes are designed to give you more control over how the car performs. For example, when you select Ludicrous Mode in your Tesla Model S, you can go from 0 to 60 mph in 2.5 seconds — but the car sacrifices range for speed. Study up on your car’s capabilities so that you can use them wisely.
Plan Your Route
The Department of Energy estimates that there are over 18,000 public charging stations across the country. Before you go out of town, check to see how far your car can go on a single charge. Map out where you can find an extra boost along the way.
Install an Ev Charger at Home
The most convenient place to plug in is your own garage, but 120-volt power will only get you a few miles of driving per hour of charge. Installing a 240-volt outlet and a Level 2 charger lets you fill up five times faster.
Clean out The Trunk
When you drive an EV, the less weight it’s carrying, the more energy it has to go the distance. To get the most out of each charge, take any heavy items you don’t need out of the trunk.
Keep up With Regular Maintenance
When compared to gasoline-powered cars, electric vehicles generally require less work. However, some primary care is still necessary. Check the tire pressure and change the air filter regularly. Also, keep an eye on fluid levels.
Use Regenerative Braking to Your Advantage
As you slow down in an EV, regenerative braking systems recapture a portion of the energy that would otherwise be lost as heat. Depending on road conditions and your vehicle’s size, this can translate into a lot of extra driving range.
Carry a Portable Ev Charger
It’s a good idea to keep a portable charger in the car for emergencies or convenience. A 240-volt outlet can charge your vehicle at triple the speed of a Level 1 cord set.
