How to beat EV range anxiety

Whether you own an electric car now or are thinking about purchasing one in the future, we're sure you've had your moments of EV range anxiety. This phenomenon is when the driver of an electric vehicle experiences anxiety about running out of charge or range on their EV before they can reach a charging station. Toyota of Orlando is here to help - check out our quick tips for dealing with EV range anxiety like a pro. 

What is EV range anxiety? Toyota of Orlando explains. 

Let's look a little deeper into EV range anxiety to get started. Electric cars run on charge alone - they're not like hybrids or plug-in hybrids that have that gasoline backup. And since electric cars are relatively new to a lot of people, it's understandable that there might be uncertainty when it comes to how far one can go and the chances of it running out of charge, especially since charging stations aren't near as numerous as gas stations. Luckily, there are ways to combat EV range anxiety; check out these tips from Toyota of Orlando's experts. 

Six tips for beating EV range anxiety 

Tip #1: Know your car. Before you give in to EV range anxiety, get to know your new Orlando Toyota! Keep the range in mind - for example, the 2023 Toyota bz4X gets around 252 miles out of one charge. Know where on the instrument panel to check the charge level and how low you can let it get before you need to stop and charge up again. Read your owner's manual and ask questions at Toyota of Orlando! 

Tip #2: Consider the facts. Electric cars used to have much shorter ranges so really, EV range anxiety was warranted. However, as these unique cars evolve and advance, the range has gotten much longer. Like we said, the new Toyota bz4X can go an estimated 252 miles before having to recharge! 

Tip #3: Be able to locate nearby charging stations. Know how to locate charging stations near you so that when you're due to charge, you can make it happen. You can download apps like Chargepoint and EVGo, as well as ChargeMap, PlugShare, and NextCharge. All of these apps can help you locate the closest charging points. 

Tip #4: Stay on top of routine car maintenance. Stick to your routine EV maintenance schedule at Toyota of Orlando. Our techs will conduct free multi-point inspections whenever you visit, which includes your battery. They can spot any new or developing issues that may affect your EV's battery and fix them right away. 

Tip #5: Think about installing a home charger. If EV range anxiety is keeping you awake at night, consider installing a home charger. You'll need a qualified electrician to do it, but you'll also be able to charge your car every night while you sleep and every morning, wake up to the maximum amount of range possible. 

Tip #6: Invest in another option. If you really can't stomach the EV range anxiety you feel about driving an electric car, think about other options. Plug-in hybrids are a great compromise; they offer the electric car driving experience but also have a hybrid system as a safety net that relies on gasoline. If you're heading out on a road trip and know long-distance travel is in your future, consider renting a hybrid or gasoline-powered car to get you where you're going. 

Have questions or need help alleviating EV range anxiety? Toyota of Orlando is open seven days a week at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall. You can call us today at (407) 298-4500!