How to start and drive and Electric vehicle in the cold

How far does an electric car go? Exploring EV range and efficiency

With the UK charging towards a net-zero future, electric vehicles are having their moment in the spotlight. So, let’s pop open the hood on what "range" really means and why it matters.

In simple terms, EV range is the distance you can drive before your electric steed needs a top-up at the charger. And yes, we should care. Imagine you’re halfway to a seaside getaway, only to find yourself parked at a random charging station instead of enjoying a cone by the coast. Not ideal.

The thing is, electric cars are redefining how we think about road trips. It’s not just about going from A to B anymore—it’s about getting there efficiently, quickly, and maybe even with a smug smile.

So, let’s take a deeper dive into what gives EVs their juice and how far you can expect to go before you need to plug in.

What is EV range?

Think of it as the distance your electric or hybrid wheels can roll before they need a recharge. It’s like your car’s endurance level—run out, and it’s back to the nearest charging station for a power-up.

Range varies based on factors like battery size, driving conditions, and your driving style. But here’s the thrilling part: the higher your EV range, the more adventures you’ll have without stopping to recharge.

How far does an electric car go?

Most EVs clock in around , depending on the model and its age. Smaller batteries—say, a 40kWh—are good for about 150 miles, while the bigger beasts, like the 100kWh batteries, can go up to 375 miles.

For instance, the Ford Mustang Mach-E and All-Electric Ford Explorer are serious road warriors, with ranges of 372 and 374 miles, respectively.

And if you’re after something more practical—the Ford E-Transit covers a handy 196 miles per charge, proving that even a trusty van can go the extra mile (or 196 of them).

 

 

All Electric Ford Mustang Mach E
All-New Ford Puma Gen-E (L)

What impacts EV range?

When it comes to how far you can drive before needing to recharge, a few key factors come into play:

1) Weather

EVs rely on lithium-ion batteries, which get a bit sluggish in cold weather. When temperatures dip below 0°C, batteries can lose up to . Keep your EV happy this winter by taking shorter trips or warming it up while parked (ideally plugged into a home charger). And don’t forget regenerative braking—it helps regain some energy while you’re on the go.

2) Speed

Push past 65 mph, and you’ll start chewing through battery life faster. To keep things efficient, aim for steady speeds. Here’s how:

  • Use Cruise Control for consistency.
  • Gradually increase your pace rather than flooring it.
  • Keep an eye on the speedometer and avoid sudden stops by anticipating traffic ahead.

3) Terrain

The type of road you drive on greatly impacts your EV range. Bumpy, uphill roads zap your battery faster. While smooth, downhill rides recharge it thanks to regenerative braking. This nifty feature captures energy while you drive, helping your car go further between charges.

To get the most out of your journey, plan your route early. Consider traffic, hills, and where you can stop to charge up. A little prep goes a long way. So whether you’re tackling a tough climb or a gentle descent, best be prepared.

4) Battery capacity/age

Battery size is key. The bigger the battery, the farther your EV can go.

If you’re a long-distance driver, a larger battery means fewer stops to recharge. It might cost more, but it’ll wipe out your range anxiety completely.

Remember that as batteries age, their range decreases too. To keep your battery healthy, keep it between 20% and 80% charged. That way, you’ll enjoy more miles and extend its overall life.

5) Weight

Heavier cars need more power to run, cutting your EV range and battery life.

So to lighten your load, clear out extra items from the boot and cabin. Opt for lighter materials too. When buying an EV, look for models that use aluminium or carbon fibre for improved efficiency.

The All-Electric Ford Mustang Mach-E runs on 9kg alloy wheels. These are lighter than your average 20kg steel wheel, improving fuel efficiency and handling.

6) Tyre pressure

Wheel resistance affects your EV range too. If your tyres are low on air, your car needs to work harder to use up more energy. But keeping tyres properly inflated – just like the manufacturer suggests – helps them roll easy, saving battery.

AC vs DC EV chargers

Matching your vehicle to your needs

Choosing the right EV is like finding your perfect relationship match – it’s all about compatibility. Are you a city slicker zipping through traffic? Or a thrill-seeker planning your next escape?

Before buying your dream car, consider the climate and charging distance to ensure you’re getting the best range for your needs. The last thing you want is to run out of fuel on a lengthy drive.

Remember, a bit of careful planning goes a long way. And before you know it, you’ll be choosing an EV that makes all your journeys worthwhile.

The best EVs by range

Ready to hit the road with pride? Whether you’re planning an expedition or cruising around town, these EVs will keep you charged up and ready to go.

Best for families (Ford Focus MHEV)

With kids in tow, you’ll need a car that can handle all the chaos. Let’s face it – crisp crumbs and epic road trip sing-alongs are just part of the fun. You’ll want an EV that rolls with the punches while keeping everyone comfy and entertained. Otherwise, what’s the point?

If you’re one for bold, sculpted fronts and sizzling tech features, bag the Ford Focus. Along with its 140-mile range, you’ll get a:

  • Co-Pilot360
  • FordPass Connect
  • 2-inch colour touchscreen
  • Swanky EcoBoost Hybrid Powershift-Automatic transmission

There’s lots of leg room too. So even your tallest family member will feel at ease.

Ford Focus MHEV front side view

Best for long commutes (Ford All-Electric Explorer)

Going the distance? You’re in for quite a ride. The 374-mile All-Electric Ford Explorer is a whopper for those long trips to the Brecon Beacons. Its chilled cabin, heated seats, panoramic sunroof, and 14.6-inch touchscreen are enough to set anyone’s heart on fire.

Time to get cosy, snack in hand, and watch the Northern Lights dance above you in a shimmering display of green and purple as you unwind from a long evening hike.

Best for short journeys and cities (Ford Puma Gen-E)

Need something small for those tight parking lots? The Ford Puma Gen-E has your back. Whether you’re tackling motorways, doing the school-run, or simply bagging your weekly food shop, this hatchback truly wins as an all-rounder.

  • Small size
  • Agile handling
  • Tech-savvy interior
  • Customisable features
  • Reliable and affordable
  • 200-mile range on a single charge.

 

Man at home charhing
Transit Custom Nugget Pop Up Roof by lake
Woman with car at public station EV charging

What is public EV charging?

These are chargers anyone can use — unlike an EV home charger, which belongs to you. Public EV charging stations come in different forms, from fast chargers at service stations to those found in parking garages and shopping centres.

But the big question is how do you charge your electric car in public? Like home charging, public EV charging stations have their own process too. When you arrive:

Step 1: Find the charging cable

Most EV chargers have their own cables, but sometimes you'll need to bring your own. Keep in mind that charging connectors can vary based on your location and the charger type. It's a smart move to check what's typically used around you.

Step 2: Connect your car

Link your car up to the charger. If the cable is already attached to the station, you’re all set. Just a heads-up: some cars have different connectors for regular and fast charging. So, if it doesn’t fit, that’s fine — just grab the right cable and you’re good to go.

Step 3: Start the charging session

You’ll need to identify yourself first. This involves a keycard, fob or a charging app on your phone. Some chargers even allow you to start the session just by tapping your debit or credit card. Once the charger recognises you, the session kicks off. You'll notice some lights on the charger or your car's dashboard. You can track the progress through your car’s display or the charging app.

Step 4: End the session and unplug

When you're ready to finish charging your EV, just swipe your card or use the app to stop the session. Then, use your car's dashboard to release the charging cable.

Finally, unplug the cable and return it to the charger (if it was built-in) or put it back in your boot (if you brought your own). And just like that, your EV is charged, ready to roll.

How do you find public EV charging stations?

These may not be as common as petrol stations, yet, but the government is investing in a wider network. To track them down, just whip out a charging station app on your phone. It's like a treasure map for EV drivers, showing nearby chargers with all the juicy details like speed, wattage and availability.

While Google or Apple Maps help, Zap-Map is the charging superhero you need. It offers real-time info, lets you filter by charger type, and helps plan routes with charging stops.

Charging adventures, here we come.

Find a charge point near you

How much does it cost to charge an EV?

These vary depending on the type of charger you use, the car’s battery capacity, and electricity rates.

Figuring out EV Charging costs

Figuring out EV charging costs is like solving a mystery where your charger type, energy provider, and location are all sneaky culprits. That’s okay, our Ford EV experts will show you what you might expect, so you won't be left in the dark — or stuck with a surprise bill.

  • Home charging: Charging up usually costs around 7p per kWh. For an even better deal, plug in at home during off-peak hours — it's cheaper and just as electrifying
  • Public charging: Rapid chargers might charge between 79p/kWh
  • Membership discounts: Many charging networks like BP Pulse and Octopus Electric offer membership discounts that can lower your charging costs, so they’re well worth checking.

How to charge as cheaply as possible

We all love saving money and charging an EV shouldn’t break the bank. To make your EV charging as cost-effective as possible, consider these strategies:

  • Off-peak charging: Try to charge your car during off-peak hours, usually late at night or early morning, when electricity rates are lower
  • Charge at home: Especially if your electricity plan offers lower rates during certain hours
  • Use public charging offers: Keep an eye out for promotions or membership discounts from different charging networks. Some providers offer lower rates for members or during specific times, helping you save extra
  • Plan your trips: Use charging apps like ChargePoint to plan your trips and find the cheapest charging options along your route
  • Consider renewable energy: Make the switch to a renewable energy supplier (Octopus Energy or Ecotricity) for your home charging. Not only does it reduce your carbon footprint, but it can lower your electricity bills as well.

What type of charger do you need?

When it comes to EV charging, you’ll want the right charger. Most cars, like the Mustang Mach-E or the Ford Kuga PHEV hybrid, come with a Type 2 charging port, which is the bog-standard for most charging ports in the UK.

  • Home charger: If you plan to install a home charging point, look for a Level 2 charger that supports Type 2 connections. Brands like Pod Point, and Zappi offer reliable solutions
  • Public charging: Most will have Type 2 connectors. Some DC fast chargers may have additional connectors like CHAdeMO or CCS (Combined Charging System). So, check your car’s compatibility before you plug in.

How do you keep your car safe while charging?

Charging EVs is generally safe, but it’s always good to be cautious.

  • Stay with your car: To monitor potential issues or respond to emergencies
  • Check for damage: Inspect the charging station and car port. If something is off, leave
  • Use trusted networks: Stick to well-known charging networks that are reliable

Charge during the day: Well-lit areas will up your safety.

Who are the major players in the EV charging game?

Cruising around in a Ford EV or plug-in hybrid? You’re in luck. Here’s a rundown of the major charging networks that work well with our Ford models:

  • FordPass Charging Network:
    • Find charging points easily with the FordPass app
    • Check real-time availability of EV chargers
    • Manage all your charging sessions in one convenient place.
  • BP Pulse:
    • Access over 8,000 EV charging stations across the UK
    • Rapid chargers available at supermarkets and shopping centres
    • Perfect for quick top-ups while you're out and about.
  • Pod Point:
    • Over 6,200 charging bays nationwide
    • Offers EV home chargers and public stations at supermarkets, hotels, and restaurants
    • Use the Pod Point app to find chargers and track your sessions with ease.
  • Shell Recharge:
    • Expanding network of charging stations at service locations
    • Ideal for charging while you're travelling
    • Convenient for longer road trips with easy access to power.
  • Ionity:
    • High-power charging stations along major routes
    • Perfect for long journeys with quick recharging times
    • Get back on the road quickly with minimal downtime.
  • ChargePoint:
    • Extensive network with thousands of charging spots worldwide
    • Real-time updates on charger availability and pricing
    • Mobile app for easy navigation and session management.
  • EVBox:
    • Offers a wide range of charging solutions for home, work, and public spaces
    • Focuses on sustainable and user-friendly charging infrastructure
    • Provides smart charging features via the EVBox app.
  • Green Motion:
    • Specialises in eco-friendly charging solutions
    • Includes a bunch of charging options for all your needs
    • Committed to providing sustainable energy solutions.

Charging your EV is easy once you know your way around the block. Whether you own a self-charging hybrid car or a fully battery powered EV, knowing where to charge, how long it takes, and how to save money can boost your EV driving experience tenfold. With more and more EV charging points and user-friendly apps on offer, finding the right electric car charger is a walk in the park!