Electric cars (EVs) are great for saving money on fuel and reducing pollution. But a lot of Indians still fret , “Will the battery get me through my entire trip? ” This fear is called “range anxiety.” Now imagine you’re on a budget and want an EV that goes far on a single charge. Sounds tough, right? But don’t worry! Many EV users in India have already found smart ways to choose long-range EVs without breaking the bank.
Let’s learn from their actual-life tips.
1. Don’t Just Look at Company-Claimed Range
Real EV owners inform us one important thing: official range is not necessarily equal to real-world range. If the company says 300 km, you might get 220–250 km with city traffic, air conditioning use, or continuous high speeds. So, read YouTube reviews or speak with owners about the “real-world range” before buying.
2. Look at Battery Size and Efficiency
Battery capacity (in kWh) matters, users say. Bigger battery means more range in general, but the battery must also be efficient. Some cars are less powerful per km but go a long way on smaller batteries. Compare the battery size to the number of km the EV provides per unit (kWh).
3. Notice Features That Save The Battery
Most real EV owners love features like “eco mode,” “regenerative braking,” and smart displays showing battery use. These generally serve to prolong the life of the battery. So, pick an EV with these features, even on the budget models.
4. Pick Models with Flexibility on Charging
A few folks say that range isn’t necessarily a function of battery size , it’s about ease of charging. It’s okay to be a bit short of range if you’re able to charge up quickly and you have charging points in the area around you. There are apps like PlugShare that will enable you to check this.
5. Used EVs Can Be a Clever Bargain
If your finances are very tight, most users suggest searching for well-maintained used EVs. A 2-year-old EV with a good battery can be much cheaper and still offer a decent range. Just make sure the battery health is still strong.