Going on a skiing trip with your EV? These tips will give you peace of mind

Every driver knows that it is best to have winter tyres fitted to your car during the winter months. But did you know that these tyres are crucial for driving your EV in winter conditions? Not only are they safer and do they shorten braking distances, winter tyres also save battery power. For electric cars, the extra grip provided by these tyres reduces energy loss, so you can keep going for a longer time.

Electric cars are equipped with many technological innovations. For example, most EVs have a car app that allows you to pre-heat the interior of the car while it is still connected to the charging station. This way, you can leave with a full battery and a nicely heated car. Moreover, you can switch off the heating while driving and only use the seat heater. That saves up to 25 percent of your battery.

Frost and snow can cause your EV’s charging gate to freeze, especially if your charging port is located at the nose of your car. Try to avoid this by using the app to heat your car before you leave. Another handy tip: take a bottle or thermos with you and defrost your charging gate with some warm water.

Before you leave, make sure you have the right cables to charge your EV during your holiday. If you need to charge from a normal socket, you will need a mobile connector. Also check whether your destination’s network is the same as in your home country. To charge while you are on the road, you will need to stop at a charging station. There are pan-European cards you can use, but some countries only accept cards from a local provider. To be well prepared, you find all the information you need on the website Plugshare.com.

The ability to accelerate is one of the reasons why driving an electric car is so much fun. But be careful when you push the throttle in freezing temperatures, so you can keep maximum control on slippery roads. Winter tyres will certainly provide more grip, but a relaxed driving style can make a big difference as well. Moreover, it will save battery power and extend your driving range. Also limit your use of regenerative braking if possible, so you don’t slide across the road. In other words, always be gentle with the accelerator, both when pressing and releasing.

When you reach the mountains, it is best not to drive on cruise control. Your EV is powerful enough to climb those hills with ease, so you will be able to enjoy a dynamic car. However, be aware that driving in mountain territory is going to affect your range. Maximum regenerative braking can certainly help when driving downhill and the extra energy you store is a nice bonus. But always try to have a full battery when you start a trip through the mountains.

Even when your EV is not driving, you are losing power. Especially harsh temperatures will affect your battery life, so try to park inside or under a roof. This protects your battery and ensures that your car does not get too cold. Your battery will thank you.

It is true that with a classic combustion engine car you do not have to stop as often to refuel. But each road trip is more fun and safer anyway when you take a break every two or three hours. So instead of hurrying to your destination, find some nice places to recharge your EV while you have a delicious lunch or a relaxing cup of coffee. You will also be less tired when you arrive and be able to enjoy your holiday from the start.