The Impact of Speed and Driving Style on EV Efficiency
Speed and driving behavior have a major impact on how much electricity an EV consumes:
- High Speeds: Energy consumption increases exponentially with speed due to aerodynamic drag. For example, driving at 130 km/h can use 25–40% more energy than at 90 km/h.
- Rapid Acceleration: Quick launches and aggressive throttle use draw more power from the battery, reducing efficiency.
- Smooth Driving: Gentle acceleration, maintaining steady speeds, and anticipating traffic improve efficiency and can lower consumption by several kWh/100 km.
- Use of Driving Modes: Eco modes typically soften throttle response and limit power output to optimize efficiency.
Driving style can be the difference between 15 kWh/100 km and 25+ kWh/100 km — especially on longer trips or at highway speeds.