Electric car range explained
Our guide to what 'range' really means and how driving efficiently can make a big difference
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One of the big questions people have when it comes to buying an electric car is how far they can travel on a full charge. And the answer to this big question is the car’s range.
Range shows how far a car can drive when it’s charged up to 100%, with the distance typically reported in miles or kilometres.
How far can I drive on a full charge?
Electric cars have come a long way in recent years and most can manage more than 100 miles, while larger battery-powered cars can do more than 250 miles. Be sure to consider and buy an electric car that offers the range that best suits your lifestyle.
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What impacts range?
Just like a petrol or diesel vehicle, many factors can impact an electric car’s efficiency, in turn impacting the range it can achieve.
Driving style
Unsurprisingly, efficient driving can make a big difference. Your battery will last longer if you can avoid heavy acceleration.
We’re not silly, we know you have to accelerate when driving, but you can pull away from the lights without putting your foot down as though you’re on a racetrack.
Also, if you’re trying to extract the most range from your battery, reducing the use of air-con and heating will help your cause.
Conditions
The weather can impact the overall performance of your battery. Extremes of both heat and cold can mean the electric motor may not perform at the peak of its power.
The good news is that manufacturers are well aware, which means your car can manage just fine with Britain’s typically unpredictable weather.
New electric cars now often come with battery temperature-management technology.
This means it will work fine when freezing conditions roll in, but also reliably in our much-promised scorching summers, whatever ‘the hottest day of the year so far’ dishes up.