Electric car owners can 'add thousands of extra miles of battery range per year' with simple steps
Drivers are being urged to avoid allowing their EVs to drop below 20 per cent battery
GETTY
Electric vehicle drivers are being urged to make changes to their habits as they could add "thousands of extra miles of range" to their batteries.
There are more than one million electric cars on the road across the UK and experts forecast that millions more will join in the next five years.
Confidence among EV owners is already high, although some owners of petrol and diesel vehicles are hesitant to switch as they remain cautious of certain EV features.
One of the most common fears is range anxiety and the efficiency of the battery, with this often being noted as the most pressing issue stopping people from switching.
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There are more than one million EV chargers on the road today
GETTYHowever, experts are now advising drivers to preserve their battery life and extend it with simple tips to help them on the road.
Generally, electric vehicle owners should avoid letting their battery drop below 20 per cent. Similarly, they are best placed to prevent charging above 80 per cent on a consistent basis.
The battery will charge the fastest between 20 and 80 per cent and will maintain the efficiency of the battery for a longer period of time.
Search data from Google shows that drivers have been searching for "car battery longevity" on a more consistent basis, rising 120 per cent since the start of this year.
When the battery is frequently charged to its maximum capacity or allowed to run down to zero, the vehicle experiences more strain. This will be made worse if this is done consistently.
A spokesperson from ATS Euromaster has called on drivers to ensure they charge their vehicles properly to get the best out of their batteries.
The spokesperson said: "To extend your vehicle's range, practice smooth acceleration and regenerative braking.
"Smooth driving helps lower energy consumption whilst regenerative braking can add thousands of extra miles of range per year."
The time of the year is also vital. In the summer months, drivers are advised to park in shaded areas or use climate control settings to maintain optimal battery performance.
Regular exposure to high temperatures can accelerate the battery's ageing process and could, in some cases, lead to very expensive repairs, potentially costing thousands of pounds.
In 2023, the RAC dealt with almost 40,000 electric vehicle breakdowns, with experts stating that many of them could have been prevented with regular maintenance.
The spokesperson added: "While monitoring battery health and checking tyre pressure will decrease the possibility of further damage, it’s also recommended to have your brakes checked every six months.
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OSPREY CHARGING"This includes your brake fluid, disks, pads, rotors and drums. These simple steps can save you a huge amount in the long run, as brake replacements can cost a few hundred pounds, while a new battery can cost thousands.