How Far Can an Electric Vehicle Go on One Charge

Most drivers are accustomed to non-stop driving (with occasional stops to gas up). Seasoned drivers often have a rough estimate of how far a full tank can take them. Naturally, when electric vehicle (EV) technology entered the picture, one of the first questions in their minds is how much range these electric cars have.

Every driver dreads being stuck on the road. If you drive a gas car, you don't start the engine and worry too much about running out of fuel. You can always stop by a gas station on the way to work. Your only real enemies are a flat tire or a busted engine.

However, driving an EV is a completely different experience. With limited charging infrastructure, you want to make sure you've fully charged overnight. And battery capacity is not the only thing you should worry about. Your driving style, the weather, and other factors dictate how far your car can take you on a single charge.

Electric car range

The distance an electric vehicle can cover on a single charge varies widely among different models, with improvements being made regularly through advancements in battery technology. Modern electric vehicles have an average range of 100 -300 miles on a single charge. However, factors such as driving habits, conditions, speed, weather, and the vehicle's overall efficiency can influence this range.

Driving range is a critical consideration for potential buyers. When the first modern highway-capable, all-electric vehicles were launched, their limited driving range compared to traditional Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) cars was very apparent. The first generation Tesla Roadster, for example, had a 200-mile driving range on a single charge. In comparison, the Honda Civic, a gas-powered car released in the same year as the Roadster (2008), had an estimated range of 383 miles on one full tank.

Two years later, Nissan LEAF entered the market as the first mass-produced all-electric, zero-tailpipe emission vehicle from a major manufacturer. Its first generation had a limited range of 73 miles on a single charge. However, the 2024 model features larger battery packs, albeit still limited to 149 miles of range. While this may seem modest compared to a gas car, this may be enough for short commutes in the city (the average daily driving distance in the US of around 40 miles per day).

Factors that can affect an EV's range

There are several factors that can significantly affect EV range. Here are some of them:

1. Driving Conditions: The terrain and driving conditions significantly impact an EV's range. Hilly terrain and frequent stops and starts can decrease efficiency, leading to a shorter range.

2. Driving Speed: Higher speeds result in increased aerodynamic drag, reducing an electric car's efficiency. Driving at lower speeds typically allows for a longer range.

3. Weather Conditions: Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can affect battery performance. Cold weather can reduce battery efficiency, while hot weather may lead to increased energy consumption for air conditioning.

4. Battery Health: The age and health of an EV's battery pack also play a role. Over time, EV batteries degrade, resulting in a gradual reduction in the vehicle's overall range.

5. Accessories Usage: The use of features such as air conditioning, heating, and other electrical accessories can impact an EV's range by drawing power from the battery.

How long does it take to charge an EV?

The charging time for electric vehicles depends on several factors, including the charging method, the vehicle's battery capacity, and the state of charge. Generally, there are three main charging levels:

1. Level 1 (120V): This is the slowest charging option, often requiring 8-20 hours to fully charge an EV, making it suitable for overnight charging at home. Most EV owners charge with the Level 1 charger that comes with their EVs.

2. Level 2 (240V): Commonly found at public charging stations and some home chargers, Level 2 chargers can provide a full charge in 4-8 hours, depending on the vehicle and its battery capacity.

3. DC Fast Charging: This is the fastest charging option, available at public charging stations. It can provide an 80% charge in 30 minutes to an hour, making it convenient for longer journeys. You can check our article on What is DC Fast Charging?

The charging speed also depends on the vehicle's compatibility with faster charging technologies and the charging infrastructure's capacity.

What happens when an EV runs out of charge?

Running out of charge, commonly known as "range anxiety," is a concern for many potential EV owners. When an electric car runs out of charge, it comes to a stop, much like a conventional car running out of fuel. However, modern electric vehicles are equipped with features to mitigate this situation.

1. Reserve Range: Most EVs have a reserve range even when the displayed battery level is low. This allows the driver to find a charging station before completely exhausting the battery.

2. Towing and Assistance: Many electric vehicle manufacturers provide roadside assistance services to tow the vehicle to the nearest charging station if needed.

3. Predictive Range Estimates: Advanced EVs often provide predictive range estimates based on driving conditions, helping drivers plan their trips more effectively and avoid running out of charge.

How far can electric cars go?

The range of electric cars has significantly improved in recent years, addressing one of the main concerns of potential buyers. While the average range for most electric vehicles falls between 100 and 300 miles, some high-end models boast ranges exceeding 400 miles on a single charge. The Tesla Model S Long Range, for example, has an EPA estimated range of 405 miles, setting a benchmark for the industry.

Below is a list of popular EVs with their corresponding EPA-estimated ranges:

Taking a road trip in an electric car

While electric vehicles are not exactly what comes to mind when you think about taking a road trip, modern EVs are now equipped with larger batteries and more energy-efficient features, which means longer distances covered in between recharges.

For example, EVs like the Tesla Model 3, Chevrolet Bolt EV, and Hyundai Kona Electric can go more than 300 miles before needing a recharge. For even longer ranges, premium cars like the Lucid Air and Tesla Model S can easily go beyond 400 miles. Meanwhile, hybrid electric vehicle models like the Toyota Prius come equipped with an electric motor, battery, gasoline tank, and an internal combustion engine. This setup allows them to operate on both gas and electricity, seamlessly switching between the two as needed. In electric mode, hybrids can generally cover around 50-60 miles on a single charge, and beyond that, they can achieve an average of 250-300 miles using their hybrid capabilities.

Additionally, EV charging infrastructure is becoming more widely available, thanks to federal incentives and commercial opportunities. They still may not be as common as gas stations, but more and more charging stations are sprouting out, especially along popular routes.

Road trips in electric cars require careful planning to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Key considerations include:

1. Charging Infrastructure: Plan routes that include charging stations along the way, considering the range of your vehicle and the locations of charging stations.

2. Charging Times: Be prepared for longer travel times due to charging stops. Utilize fast-charging stations when available to minimize downtime.

3. Weather Conditions: Account for weather conditions, as extreme temperatures can impact both range and charging efficiency.

4. Route Planning Apps: Use apps that provide real-time information on charging station availability, ensuring you have a seamless charging experience.

Another good practice when going on an EV road trip (or even on a daily commute) is to keep portable charging accessories in your trunk at all times. While there are public charging stations in parking lots, supermarkets, and along major highways, there may be areas where there are too few and far between or they are not compatible with your EV model. Here are some accessories worth keeping in your trunk:

1. Portable EV Charger: A portable EV charger will allow you to connect your EV to a standard electrical outlet. This is particularly handy in situations where dedicated charging stations are limited. A portable Level 1 charger comes with a NEMA 5-15 plug which you can plug into a 110V outlet, while a Level 2 charger has a NEMA 14-50 plug which connects to a 240V outlet. For J1772 EVs, consider the Lectron Portable Level 1 J1772 EV Charger and the Portable Level 2 J1772 EV Charger. For Tesla owners, the Lectron Portable Level 1 Tesla EV Charger and the Tesla Portable Level 2 EV Charger are great considerations.

2. Adapter: Carrying an adapter can be crucial, especially if you encounter different types of charging outlets. Some public charging stations may have connectors that don't directly match your EV's charging port. A Tesla to J1772 adapter will allow J1772 EVs to charge at Tesla charging locations, except for Superchargers. However, if you drive a CCS-compatible EV in the NACS alliance, you can use the Lectron Vortex Plug to access Tesla Superchargers. Meanwhile, a J1772 to Tesla adapter will grant Tesla owners access to J1772 chargers.

3. Extension Cord: There may be instances where the charging station is just out of reach, and having an extension cord allows you to connect your car without any hassle. The Lectron Tesla EV Extension Cord will add 20 ft. to your Tesla charger, while the Lectron J1772 EV Extension Cord comes in 20ft and 40ft variants.

FAQs

• How long does it take to charge an electric car at a charging station?

  Charging times vary based on the charging level and the vehicle. Level 1 chargers may take 8-20 hours, Level 2 chargers can take 4-8 hours, while DC fast chargers can provide an 80% charge in 30 minutes to an hour.

• Is charging an electric car cheaper than gas?

  In many cases, charging an electric car is cheaper than fueling a gasoline vehicle. The cost of electricity is generally lower than gasoline, and some public charging stations offer free or discounted charging.

• Do electric cars charge while driving?

  While electric cars don't traditionally charge while driving, regenerative braking allows them to recapture and store some of the energy normally lost as heat during braking. In a nutshell, when an electric vehicle with regenerative braking slows down or decelerates, the electric motor operates in reverse, acting as a generator.

• What happens if an electric car runs out of charge?

  If an electric car runs out of charge, it will come to a stop. However, most EVs have a reserve range, and drivers are provided with warning alerts. Roadside assistance services and predictive range estimates help mitigate the consequences of running out of charge.