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Eco-Driving Tips to Get the Most From Your EV

By Electric Cars Salon Editorial Team · Updated · 2 min read

EV efficiency display

Quick answerSmooth, planned driving can improve an EV's real-world range by roughly 10 to 30%, saving energy, money and CO₂.

Data note: figures are approximate and come from the sources listed at the end. Prices, ranges and rules change often, so confirm with the manufacturer or the official body before you decide. Last reviewed Oct 30, 2026.

Where the energy goes

Factor Effect on consumption
Speed above about 90 km/h (55 mph) Rises sharply (air resistance grows with the square of speed)
Cold weather Often +10–30% (battery and heating)
Cabin heating and AC Can cut range noticeably in extremes
Aggressive acceleration Wastes energy
Under-inflated tyres Higher rolling resistance
Heavy loads and roof boxes More weight and drag

15 tips

Driving style

  1. Accelerate smoothly and avoid sudden bursts.
  2. Anticipate traffic and let regenerative braking do the slowing.
  3. Use the strongest regen setting in town, and coast on motorways if that is more efficient.
  4. Moderate motorway speed: cruising at 100 km/h instead of 130 can add substantial range.
  5. Use adaptive cruise control for steady speeds.

Before you go

  1. Precondition the cabin and battery while plugged in.
  2. Charge to what you need; charging above 80% daily wears the battery (battery guide).
  3. Plan efficient routes with fewer stops and hills.
  4. Remove roof racks and extra load when not needed.

Climate and comfort

  1. Use seat and steering-wheel heaters instead of heating the whole cabin.
  2. Set a modest cabin temperature and use eco mode.
  3. Park in shade or a garage in hot or cold weather.

Maintenance

  1. Keep tyres at the recommended pressure, checked monthly (sustainable EV tires).
  2. Choose low-rolling-resistance tyres when replacing.
  3. Install software updates, which often improve efficiency.

Estimated impact

Habit Typical range gain
Lower motorway speed by 20 km/h ~10–20%
Correct tyre pressure ~2–4%
Preconditioning in winter ~5–15%
Smooth acceleration and regen use ~5–15%
Remove roof box ~5–20% on motorways

Efficiency benchmarks

kWh per 100 km Rating
Under 14 Excellent
14–18 Good
18–22 Average (heavier SUVs)
Over 22 High consumption

More on range: the complete guide to electric cars and EV charging guide.

FAQ

Does one-pedal driving save energy?

It helps by recovering energy that friction brakes would waste.

Should I use eco mode?

Yes for efficiency, at the cost of some responsiveness.

Is it better to drive slower to save range?

Yes, especially on motorways.

Where to verify these figures

Check efficiency ratings at fueleconomy.gov and your car's manual for tyre pressures and regen settings.