Tech Desk: Electric vehicle ranges are constantly improving, but maximizing those miles depends heavily on how you drive and external factors. Surprisingly, unlike gasoline cars, EVs consume more energy on highways than in stop-and-go traffic. High speeds increase aerodynamic drag and tire friction, making energy expenditure less efficient. Crucially, highway driving also limits the benefits of regenerative braking, which can extend battery life by up to 20% by converting kinetic energy back into electricity.

Beyond driving style, internal comfort features are major culprits. Running your car’s air conditioning or heater can significantly reduce range, potentially by several miles per hour. While navigation and infotainment systems have minimal impact, climate control is a notable power draw. To combat this, consider pre-conditioning your cabin while still plugged into a charger.

Environmental conditions also play a critical role. Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, dramatically affect battery performance. Studies show EV range can drop by nearly a third in freezing conditions and around 18% in blazing 100-degree heat. Additionally, carrying excess weight, whether cargo or passengers, forces the battery to work harder, further diminishing your vehicle’s operating range.

To maximize your EV’s range, adopt a smoother driving style, avoiding rapid accelerations and maintaining moderate speeds. Removing unnecessary weight and prudently managing climate control are simple yet effective strategies. Many EV manufacturers offer in-app monitoring, allowing you to track energy consumption and understand what’s affecting your battery health, helping you drive smarter and farther.