
8 Essential Tips for Long-Range EV Driving in the UK: Expert Guide

Mountain road with trees
With over 50,000 miles of electric driving experience across Britain, here are essential tips for successful long-distance EV journeys.

Nissan Leaf parked by water
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Stop rapid charging at 90%. The final 10% charges slowly and multiple rapid charges can overheat the battery, reducing charging speed.
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Contact chargepoint providers before long trips to verify route availability and get real-time updates.
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Charge when battery drops below 33% and always maintain a backup reserve for Plan B. Multiple smaller charges are safer than risking a single depleted-battery charge.
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Maintain optimal speed and range:
- 60 mph is ideal for efficiency
- Keep 20% battery margin for unexpected situations
- Adjust speed based on weather conditions and traffic
- Save higher speeds (65-70 mph) for approaching known charging stations
- For rural areas:
- Book accommodations with charging access
- Bring a portable EVSE charger
- Pack a 10-meter extension cord
- Consider B&Bs and hostels over hotels
- Troubleshooting charging issues:
- Try multiple times if initial connection fails
- Disable auto-charging timer during long trips
- Carry at least three main charging network cards
- Download all relevant charging apps
- Mountain driving tips:
- Expect significant power loss uphill
- Utilize regenerative braking on descents
- Don't panic about temporary range reduction
- Consider alternatives:
- Evaluate train or public transport options
- Choose the most efficient transport method
- Factor in stress levels and overall journey time
These guidelines ensure smooth long-distance EV travel while maximizing range and minimizing stress. Remember that proper planning and maintaining backup options are key to successful electric vehicle journeys.