Lifehacks for EV drivers

EV tips and tricks - we can't get enough of them. So, we've rounded up some 'lifehacks' that could help to make your journeys more convenient, comfortable, or even cost effective.

1. Your EV could help charge your electric devices

If you’ve just made the switch to an EV, you may have already used it to charged your mobile – but did you know that you may also be able to use your EV as a portable charger? Depending on your vehicle and on the devices themselves, it may be possible to top up your laptops and tablets if you need a bit of extra juice, for example on the way to work or school. We've even heard of EVs being used to boil a travel kettle on a camping trip. (But check your manual when deciding if this is right for you.)

Tip: Remember charging will take charge from your battery. Still, this is one perk that can really help with busy schedules.

2. Charging on the public network can be a multi-tasking dream

With a bit of forward planning, you can turn charging sessions into coffee breaks, a chance to eat, stock up on groceries or fit in a workout. Pick public charging spots that are near shops, restaurants, and the gym and you can take advantage of charging and make it work for you. For a digital memory of your favourite charging locations, you can create an account on the bp pulse app, so you can save your favourite chargers to return to again and again.

Tip: Head to our brand new charger directory where you can filter for cafes, bathrooms, and get more information on whether shopping is available. Want chargers near bigger shopping centres? Check this guide out.

3. Be in the know to help maximise your range

Understanding your EV – and what uses up battery – can help you prolong its battery life. It’s useful to know that cooling and heating, using the radio, braking and accelerating all use energy, so aim to use your heating and air conditioning only when you really need to, and speed up and slow down gradually and gently, rather than sharply. This can all add up to better battery conservation.

4. Charging on the go? Remote monitoring is your friend

Some EVs offer remote monitoring, which means you’ll get alerts on your device to tell you how long your EV has left to reach your desired charge. So you can plan your charging breaks, almost to the minute, know how long you can enjoy that coffee for, before heading back to free up a charging bay for other drivers – which is always great EV etiquette.

5. Aim for an 80% charge for your EV (rather than 100%)

One super clever hack for EV drivers is to remember that an 80% maximum charge can bring all sorts of benefits, from quicker charging to overall EV maintenance.

6. Understanding the charging curve can help you plan your charging breaks – and know how long it might take

The charging curve is a way of summing up the different speeds at which a battery can take in charge, depending on how full – or empty – it is at the point of charge. Typically, a battery low on charge, begins to charge slowly, speeds up in the middle, and then slows down again as it reaches maximum capacity. So, if you’ve not charged for a while, you could feasibly make time for a longer break – and maybe phone your mum – than if your battery is nearer 80%.

7. Use our app to make a beeline to EV chargers right for you

Get our free bp pulse app downloaded on your phone for fuss-free journey planning. You’ll be able to see EV chargers on your chosen route and filter for preferred charging speeds, too. For more choice, see our chargers on your Google Maps, and search our new charger directory, too.

8. Think ‘ABC’ (Always Be Charging)

In much the same way that you might with your laptop, Kindle, and phone at home, aiming for regular, consistent charging sessions and using opportunities when they present themselves – is a nifty hack to maximise range confidence. Thinking ABC is a nice prompt – and can keep you at that sweet spot of between 20 – 80% charge.

9. Make time for preconditioning before you hit the road

Allowing time to precondition your EV before a drive – ideally while still connected to your home charger, if you have one. Preconditioning ensures your battery (and the inside of your EV) can reach optimal temperature before you set off, so you’ll need less climate control, air conditioning and heating on the journey. Which means your battery can conserve energy for longer.

10. Regenerative braking is a nifty way to top up your EV

As EV hacks go, this is one of our favourites, as it helps you ABC without even really trying. Using regenerative (or regen) braking converts energy from braking into battery charge. Your manual will tell you if you have this, and we’re here to help you understand how to use it – and when.

These 10 lifehacks will hopefully get you feeling confident and raring to go from the moment you bring your EV home. And for more, just stick with us – online, on your socials, and with our newsletter.