This video explains how vehicle range works for different types of vehicles, including gasoline, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric cars. It covers the factors that influence range, how to calculate it, and tips for maximizing range. The video also compares the range capabilities of different vehicle types and provides practical advice for drivers.
One of the most talked about features of an electric vehicle is how far it can go on a full charge. This is the car's "range." For example, electric cars like the base Nissan Leaf and the Mini Cooper S Electric have less than 200 miles of usable range. That doesn't sound like a lot, but it's more than enough to get you through the day and back home to recharge. There are many other options now available on the market that offer much more range - many electric cars offer over 300, 400, or even 500 miles on a full charge. If you have access to electric car chargers at home, work, or in public spaces you frequently visit, life with an EV becomes even more convenient. Using basic math, you can determine how far you can go on a charge. One method is measured in "miles per kilowatt-hour." The higher the "miles per kilowatt-hour," the more efficient the vehicle. Multiply the "miles per kilowatt-hour" rating by the "kilowatt-hour" size of the battery to get the theoretical range. For instance, an EV with a 100-kilowatt-hour battery rated at 2.5 miles per kilowatt-hour will deliver a range of about 250 miles (100 x 2.5 = 250). Ratings for "kilowatt hours per 100 miles" also help measure a car's range. For example, an EV with a 75-kilowatt-hour battery rated at 35 kilowatt hours per 100 miles will go 214 miles on a full charge (75 ÷ 35 x 100 = 214). The "miles per gallon equivalent" number can give you a sense of an EV’s efficiency compared to a gas car. Vehicle efficiency is the result of multiple variables including its size, frontal area, weight, and performance. As you gain more knowledge about EVs, it will get easier to figure out which one will be best for you. And whichever you choose, you'll enjoy reduced fuel costs compared to a gasoline vehicle - a true win-win. Thanks for watching. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel to get recommendations for other useful content on green cars, and how they can work best for you!