Written by Robyn Keet
In line with our commitment to the Belgian Alliance for Climate Action, BrightWolves is tackling the biggest contributor to its GHG footprint: our fleet. While we are rolling out our mobility arrangements for the whole company, our junior Wolves received a Volkswagen ID3 in April 2021. With this article, we want to offer you some fun facts on the ID3 and electric vehicles in general while leaving you with some tips & tricks for your own EV journey.
Did you know EV’s exist for almost 200 years already?
You might think that electric vehicles are a brand new thing, but the first electric vehicle was invented in 1832. In the early 1900s, electric and hybrid vehicles were more popular than pure fuel ones[1]. However, technological improvements in fuel cars left the EVs behind until fuel cars nearly reached market monopoly. Today the odds are changing as significant developments in battery technology have allowed EVs to make a comeback. In 2020, most car manufacturers saw their sales drop, yet sales for EVs and hybrids increased. The market for new cars contracted by 24% while the European sales of electrically-chargeable vehicles increased by 143%[2].
How does driving an EV work? Tips & tricks on the range, charging and maintenance.
Facts and tips for improving your range and battery lifetime.
As with fuel cars, the way you drive your vehicle has an important impact on how far you can go before fueling it again. For electric cars, more than just a light foot, other elements can also influence how far you can go. Here are some tips & tricks to increase your range[3]:
1. Slow down and drive smoothly
Driving at high speeds will increase your battery usage, as will frequent acceleration. Why not try to use the cruise control feature to help you drive economically? For the ID3, the ideal highway speed is 120km/h. Additionally, the ID3 lets you recover part of the energy by using ‘driving mode B’ through regenerative braking[4].
2. Beware of the temperature
Excessive heating in winter or cooling in the summer will use up energy and reduce your range. When cooling/heating is necessary, adjust the temperature before leaving while your car is still connected to the energy grid. For the ID3, VW offers you an app where you can follow the charging speed and pre-heat or pre-cool your car.
In terms of battery lifetime, try to store your car somewhere you would enjoy the temperature as well. High and low temperatures are bad for the battery, even when it is not in use. Try to park your car in the shade during summer and in a garage during winter.