EV Range Anxiety and How to Avoid It

You may have heard the phrase “range anxiety” if you’re currently shopping for an EV for the first time. Many people let range anxiety deter them from making the switch to an EV, but we’d like to dig a little deeper. Range anxiety often refers to the fear of your EV battery running out and getting stranded out on the road. While it’s possible for your car’s battery to run out, we can assure you that it is easily avoidable with the proper preparation. Think of the following examples of technology you already use. You may have days where you forgot to charge your cell phone, laptop, or other wireless device. However, more often than not, charging these devices is built into your daily routine! Plus, just as there’s usually someone around to lend you a phone charger, there are often many EV charging stations at your disposal, especially in densely populated areas.

Range anxiety when driving an EV can be easily avoided by adopting a few simple habits into your daily routine. One of the most effective methods is to invest in a home charging station. This allows you to charge your EV conveniently overnight, ensuring it’s always ready for your daily journeys. Make charging part of your routine, like plugging in your EV right when you get home, just as you would with a smartphone. Charging your EV at the same time each day will soon become second nature. It’s also a good practice to charge your car before you need to, keeping your battery level above 20% to provide a comfortable buffer. Not only will this keep you out of the “danger zone” where range anxiety might creep in, but it also helps keep your battery in great shape!

Being proactive about planning your trips can be a great way to combat range anxiety! If you’re taking a trip, be sure to charge your EV the night before so that you start with a full battery. Before you go, look up charging stations along your route, so you’re aware of available charging options. You can even calculate the number of miles you’ll be traveling, factoring in any detours or unexpected stops, so that you know you won’t go over the limit of your vehicle’s range. Timing your charging breaks to avoid nighttime charging is another strategy for those who wouldn’t want to make a pit stop in an unfamiliar place. You can also consider taking scheduled “charging breaks” during your journey, making several short stops at charging stations instead of a single long one, which can reduce wait times and make your travel more efficient.

Ford offers some great fully-electric options like the Ford F-150, and the Mustang Mach-E. These models are true EVs which run solely on electric power from their rechargeable battery. However, if you’re brand-new to the electric vehicle market, you might want to consider purchasing a PHEV instead. A PHEV uses a battery hand-in-hand with a gas-powered engine, which gives you some leeway when it comes to charging. PHEVs often have longer overall driving ranges, since you have the help of the gas tank to fall back on. Opting for a PHEV like the Ford Escape PHEV is a great way to ease into the world of EVs, and learn the ins and outs of charging!

Customers in and around Lancaster are invited to explore our extensive selection of Ford electric vehicles at Susquehanna Ford of Willow Street, PA. Whether you’re interested in the F-150 Lightning, the Escape PHEV, or any other Ford EV model, we have a wide range of options to suit your needs and preferences. If you’re looking for something specific, our dealership offers the option to place a custom order, ensuring that you get the exact Ford EV you desire, with the features and specifications that matter most to you. To kickstart the process and find the perfect Ford electric vehicle for your lifestyle, simply fill out the form below, and our expert team will be ready to assist you every step of the way. We look forward to working with you soon!