Electric Vehicle Range: Factors That Affect It
Published Apr 13, 2026 · 6 min read
An EV's rated range is measured under ideal conditions. Real-world range can be 10-40% lower depending on several factors.
Factors That Reduce Range
| Factor | Range Impact |
|---|---|
| Cold weather (20°F / -7°C) | -20 to -40% |
| Highway driving (70+ mph) | -15 to -25% |
| AC in summer | -5 to -15% |
| Heating in winter | -10 to -25% |
| Hilly terrain | -10 to -20% |
| Aggressive driving | -10 to -20% |
Tips to Maximize Range
- Pre-condition the cabin while plugged in
- Use seat heaters instead of cabin heat (80% more efficient)
- Drive at 60 mph instead of 75 mph (up to 25% more range)
- Use one-pedal driving (regenerative braking)
- Keep tires properly inflated
Try it: Use our EV Range Calculator to estimate real-world range for your vehicle and conditions.