As the world starts to shift to electric vehicles, fleet managers have the opportunity to lead the charge within the industry, and find a way to make BEV’s work for their business. By understanding how electric range is affected on the road and with these tips to optimise power, you can get the most out of your electric fleet.
Maximising All-Electric Range
There are several steps that can be taken to maximise your all-electric range:
- Scheduled pre-conditioning. Range can be preserved significantly, particularly in very cold temperatures, if the battery is at an ideal operating temperature. Set departure times so your vehicle is ready when you are.
- Regenerative deceleration. Every time you coast or apply light braking, E-Transit uses regenerative deceleration to top up its battery. Selecting L (Low) Mode will increase the strength of the regeneration and increase the energy recaptured by decelerating.
- Drive modes. Eco Mode makes your remaining battery power go further by limiting the top speed, using less power for climate control and actively managing acceleration.
To further maximise range, consider optional features such as an engine governor (which limits speed) or acceleration control (which ensures the vehicle accelerates at the same rate whether it is full of cargo or completely empty).
- Temperature outside and inside. Extreme cold or hot temperatures affect battery cell chemistry. EV Batteries need help to operate at an optimum temperature. Either cooling or heating the vehicle while driving uses energy from the high voltage battery. Maintaining a consistent cabin temperature is more efficient versus regularly turning the climate control on and off again.
- Road terrain and surface quality. Braking downhill provides the opportunity to recharge the battery via regenerative braking, driving uphill requires more energy. Using Low (L) position on the electronic transmission selector provides an increased level of deceleration when you lift off the accelerator pedal. You can use (L) at all times, if desired, but it is designed to improve drivability and efficiency while descending hills.
- Poor weather conditions. In addition to temperature levels, driving in windy or adverse weather conditions like heavy rain or snow can have a negative impact on range. Driving into a strong headwind will negatively impact range performance.
- Battery health. You can increase the longevity of your high voltage battery by using the Departure Times feature, this can keep your battery at the optimal temperature and state of charge based on your settings and usage. Allowing your battery to cool before charging and setting the maximum state of charge to 90% for everyday usage improves longevity of your high voltage battery. Storing your vehicle in temperatures between 0°C and 45°C is the most beneficial for the high voltage battery. You can also increase the battery life by maintaining your state of charge below 100%. When you park your vehicle for an extended period of 30 days or more, we recommend your battery be at an approximately 50% state of charge. Storing your vehicle’s high voltage battery at higher states of charge is less favourable than storing at lower states of charge.
- Vehicle Maintenance Level. Following the guidance on service intervals can ensure that the brake fluid level and coolant concentration remain in line with Ford’s recommendations.
- Tyre Condition. Tyre quality and either over or under inflated tyres can affect performance – just like a petrol or diesel vehicle. Uneven wear on tyres can have an effect on range and this should be checked by an authorised Ford dealer to ensure wheel alignment is correct.
- Payload. Transporting more weight results in greater energy consumption – see overleaf. The more aerodynamic the vehicle, the less drag it has. Towing or carrying a roof rack will impact range performance just as it does on a petrol or diesel vehicle.
- Driving style and speed. Fast acceleration and maintaining higher speeds above 50 mph consume more energy. Smoother acceleration and braking are key to achieving the best range.
- Use of accessories. Use of electrical sockets and accessories within the vehicle, like charging your mobile device, also consumes energy from the high-voltage battery.
With electrified transportation developing at such a rapid rate, it can seem overwhelming. Ford Fleet Management makes it simple by helping you develop a full EV strategy from vehicles to consultancy, charging infrastructure to funding and much more*.
Our experts are always on hand to advise and support you on your electrification journey. Find out more or contact our expert team on information@fordfleetmanagement.co.uk or 0370 325 0023.
*Business customers only. Funding / finance solutions provided by Ford Fleet Management UK Limited, Oakwood Drive, Emersons Green, Bristol, BS16 7LB. Ford Fleet Management UK Limited (FFM UK), company registration number 12782519, is registered in England and Wales and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN.955446). Guarantees and indemnities may be required.
