People who drive gas-powered vehicles rarely have to worry about where they can refuel. There might not be a gas station on every corner, but odds are you can find one within a few blocks. When you drive an electric vehicle, it’s a different story, though maybe not as grim as you think: there’s one electric vehicle charging station for every five gas stations in California.
That fear that you’ll run out of juice before you can recharge is called range anxiety and it’s a hurdle that keeps many consumers from buying an EV.
Thankfully, advances in technology and the growth of public charging networks means range anxiety might soon be a thing of the past. If you’re considering an EV purchase, understanding range anxiety and how to overcome it can unlock a world of new-car possibilities.
What causes range anxiety?
First, let’s look at some of the factors that contribute to range anxiety:
- Limited charging infrastructure: As mentioned, the limited (but rapidly growing) number of public charging stations can make it tricky to find a place to recharge, especially in rural areas.
- Battery range uncertainty. Weather conditions, driving speed and using features like air conditioning can all impact your EV’s range, leaving you uncertain how far you’ll get before you need to recharge.
- How long it takes to charge: Even with fast chargers, it can take significantly longer to recharge an EV than it does to fill up a gas tank.Inexperience: For drivers new to EVs, there’s a learning curve in understanding range, how to optimize it and where to recharge. All that can heighten range anxiety.
Relief is here and more is on the horizon
The good news is that automakers have addressed range anxiety in a variety of ways, making it easier than ever to recharge on the go. Some of the improvements include:
- New models with longer ranges. Modern EVs like the Kia EV9, the Tesla Model 3 and Ford Mustang Mach-E offer ranges between 250 and 400 miles on a single charge, enough for even long road trips.
- Growing network of public charging stations. Companies like Tesla, Electrify America and ChargePoint are building public charging networks, particularly along major highways. The U.S. government is ing the growth of public charging networks, too, with initiatives like the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law of 2021, which allocated $7.5 billion specifically for EV charging infrastructure, with the goal of deploying 500,000 public chargers by 2030.
- More efficient batteries. Advances in battery technology mean they can charge faster, reducing downtime at charging stations. Fast-charging options like public Level 3 chargers are also becoming more widely available.
- Tools to help manage range. EVs have navigation systems that can monitor your driving habits, terrain and real-time battery usage for accurate range estimates. Many also display the locations of nearby charging stations, making it easier for drivers to plan ahead.
Tips for overcoming range anxiety
There are several strategies you can use to overcome anxiety and extend your EV’s range.
- Plan ahead. Apps like PlugShare, ChargePoint and Google Maps allow drivers to locate charging stations in advance, reducing stress.
- Charge at home. Installing a home charging station that allows you to start every day with a full battery helps reduce the need to rely on public charging
- Drive smart.
- Avoid sudden acceleration and hard braking. Keeping a steady pace, especially on highways, helps your battery last longer. Use cruise control when possible for consistent speed.
- Use regenerative braking. Many EVs have regenerative braking systems that recover energy while slowing down. Coasting to a stop instead of hitting the brakes hard can help recharge the battery a little as you go.
- Limit the use of climate controls. Heating and air conditioning can drain the battery fast. Try using heated seats instead of full-blast cabin heat, or pre-cool your car while it’s plugged in to avoid using energy on the road.
- Keep your tires properly inflated. Low tire pressure creates more resistance, which forces the motor to work harder and use more energy. Keeping your tires inflated to the correct level helps with range.
This article was produced by Skyline Studio, the in-house creative agency for Southern California News Group and The San Diego Union-Tribune. The news and editorial staffs of SCNG and the U-T had no role in this post’s preparation.
