What happens if an electric car runs out of power?
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Like running out of fuel in a traditional car, an electric vehicle (EV) can also run out of power—its battery can be completely discharged. How can you avoid this, and what should you do if the worst happens?
How far can you drive on a full charge?
Many potential EV buyers worry about the driving range they’ll get on a full charge and what will happen if their battery dies before reaching a charging station. Early EV models, like the Peugeot iOn, had a range of about 160 kilometers. However, technology has improved rapidly, and today, even affordable models like the Renault ZOE can cover nearly 400 km, while Tesla vehicles can exceed 560 km on a full charge. For comparison, the distance from Vilnius to Klaipėda is 306 km.
The driving range on a full charge depends on the vehicle’s battery size, driving style, weather, and traffic conditions. EV dashboards feature range indicators that provide a realistic estimate of the remaining kilometers based on your driving habits.
Here are the ranges of some popular EV models on a full charge:
• Honda e – 201 km
• BMW i3 120Ah – 293 km
• Hyundai IONIQ – 310 km
• Vauxhall Corsa e – 336 km
• Nissan Leaf e+ – 384 km
• Renault Zoe – 394 km
• Tesla Model 3 SR+ – 409 km
• Kia e Niro – 453 km
• Jaguar I-Pace – 470 km
• Tesla Model 3 LR – 560 kmIn essence, there’s little difference between EVs and internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles in this regard. EVs need to be charged just as often as ICE vehicles require refueling. Like a fuel gauge in a gasoline or diesel car, EV dashboards have range indicators showing how far you can go before needing a recharge.
When it’s time to charge your EV, integrated navigation systems or mobile apps can guide you to the nearest charging stations, showing availability and charging costs.
Can you tow an EV?
If you run out of fuel in a traditional car, you might look for someone to tow you a few kilometers to the nearest gas station or pour fuel from a canister. Unfortunately, you can’t pour electricity into a bucket. But what about towing?
Electric vehicles should not be towed with a rope or a lift (where only two front wheels are raised) as this can damage the traction motors, which generate electricity through regenerative braking. The only safe way is to transport the EV to a charging station using a flatbed tow truck.
Different EV manufacturers provide varying advice on handling a depleted battery. For example, Tesla and Renault advise using only a flatbed tow truck, while Nissan states that the latest Leaf can be towed with its front wheels raised, avoiding damage to the traction motor. However, a flatbed tow truck remains the safest option.
Experts recommend avoiding full battery discharge in EVs. Manufacturers warn that completely depleting the battery can cause damage. Fully draining the battery may weaken its cells and degrade its performance over time. It’s always best to keep about 10–20% of the battery’s capacity.
Considering the expanding EV infrastructure, charging stations are becoming as common as corner shops, making it easier to recharge regularly and avoid running out of power before reaching your destination.
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