Drivers planning longer journeys are being urged not to rely solely on their car's advertised range. Simon England, founder of GAP insurance provider ALA Insurance, recommends planning trips around the vehicle's expected real-world driving range and allowing extra battery capacity for unexpected delays.
"The two main issues are range and charging, which go hand in hand. If you understand how to maximise your charge for your specific EV, you can get the most out of your battery and reduce the risk of being caught out," he said.
Hot weather reduces EV range
Warmer conditions can take a significant toll on how far an electric vehicle travels on a full charge. Simon England said: "Hot weather can cut your EV's range by up to 15%, so drivers should factor this in before setting off, especially if they're relying heavily on air con."
The UK now has more than 121,000 public charging points, but availability is not uniform. Rural areas and routes away from major motorways can be more sparsely covered, making it worthwhile to map out charging stops before leaving.
Use route planning apps and charge to 80%
Simon England recommends using route-planning apps to identify charging locations in advance and advises that drivers do not always need to wait until the battery is full. He said: "Using a route planning app such as ZapMap is a great way to be prepared to plan your charging points before you set off. Also, it's worth charging up to 80%, not 100%. This is because after 80% the charging speed dramatically tapers off and can waste time."
Fines and penalties for EV drivers
Motorists are also being reminded of lesser-known penalties. Parking in a charging bay without connecting the vehicle can result in a fine of up to £130, and some charging operators impose additional fees on drivers who leave their cars in a space long after charging has finished.
Running out of charge on a motorway can prove even more costly. Simon England said: "The biggest fine you can receive is if you run out of charge on the motorway. As this is causing obstruction, you can be fined up to £100 plus points on your licence for careless driving."
With more people expected to take to the roads over the summer break, a small amount of preparation before setting off could help avoid delays, charging problems and costly fines.
