A Beginner’s Guide
Are you new to electric vehicles (EVs) or contemplating making the switch to electric? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Many drivers are now transitioning to EV due to their environmental benefits and long-term cost savings. However, driving an EV does have its differences from driving a traditional petrol or diesel car, and it can take some time to adjust.
With more than 1.1 million battery-electric cars registered on UK roads at the end of May 2024, having almost doubled since 2022 (ZapMap), EVs are fast becoming the future of transportation. With this in mind, we’ve put together a beginner’s guide to mastering the art of EV ownership.
Familiarise yourself with your EV’s features and functions
Before you hit the road, take some time to read through your EV’s manual to learn about the different features and functions. Each EV model is unique and it’s important to get to know the capabilities of your vehicle and the dashboard, controls, and charging capabilities available.
Plan your route and charging stops
When planning a trip, make sure to consider the range of your EV and plan your route accordingly. Make use of the PoGo Charge map and app to locate charging stations along your route, and remember to factor in charging stops as needed. [LA1] When planning a trip, make sure to consider the range of your EV and plan your route accordingly. Make use of our PoGo Charge map and app to locate charging stations along your route, and remember to factor in charging stops as needed. We also have a number of roaming partners to help make your journey even easier, including Electroverse, Paua and AllStar and you can find us on Zapmap as well.
Use regenerative braking to your advantage
Did you know: many electric vehicles come equipped with regenerative braking, which converts the energy used to slow down the car back into electricity to recharge the battery. Practise using regenerative braking to help extend your range. Click here for a deeper dive into regenerative braking.
Drive efficiently
One of the biggest factors in EV range is driving style. Avoid hard accelerations, sudden braking and try to maintain a steady speed. Also, be mindful of potential features which make use of your vehicle’s battery such as air conditioning and heated seats.
Monitor your battery level and range
Keep an eye on your battery level and range throughout your trip. Don’t wait until your battery is running low to start looking for a charging station. Plan your charging stops in advance to ensure a stress-free journey. Some electric vehicles allow for preconditioning of the battery to allow for optimal charging; refer to your owner manual or dealership for further guidance on the features of your car.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of EV driving. Remember, driving an EV may take some getting used to, but the benefits are well worth it.
At PoGo Charge, we’re committed to making the switch to EV driving as easy and convenient as possible. With our expanding network of charging stations and 24/7 driver support, you can rest assured that you’ll have everything you need to Power Up and Go Adventure.
