8 September 2025
As we say goodbye to the summer, we’re taking a look back at some of the highlights from the past couple of months.
There’s been plenty to celebrate this summer: We saw some big investments in the charging infrastructure and new grants that help reduce the upfront cost of EVs, as we continued to push for making EV driving more accessible for people with mobility needs and those who live in flats and apartment buildings. We also supported the BVRLA’s call for more destination charging across the UK, and were delighted to welcome two new partners, ClearWatt and ChargeGuru, who are supporting us in our mission.
It’s also been a summer of showcasing the joy of EV driving. From our members’ experiences at the London to Brighton EV rally and an almost record-breaking drive from John O’Groats to Land’s End, we’ve seen not only how far EVs can take us but also how fun they are to drive.
Our Chair, Warren, also joined the London to Brighton EV Rally, winning the efficiency prize in the SUV category for the third time in four years.
That success wasn’t just about the car; it was about how you drive it. Efficient driving helps every EV owner go further, save money, and maximise their battery’s potential.
That’s why we asked Warren to share his top tips for getting the best out of your EV on the road. And because efficient driving goes hand in hand with good battery care, our new partner ClearWatt have also shared their expert advice on how to keep your EV battery healthy for the long run.
The London to Brighton route has long been a symbol of British motoring history, dating back to the 1896 Emancipation Run. This year, I had the unique experience of completing it twice in just seven days – first on two wheels, then on four.
On Father’s Day, I took part in the British Heart Foundation’s London to Brighton Bike Ride on an 830Wh electric bike, raising over £1,500.
A week later, I was back on the same route for the London to Brighton EV Rally, this time behind the wheel of the brand-new KIA EV3, generously loaned to me by my local Kia dealership, Tates. My focus this time was on efficiency and how to get the most out of every kilowatt on the road.
But efficient driving isn’t only for rallies, it’s a mindset every EV driver can adopt to get the most of their car, every day.
1. Master Smooth Driving
Gentle acceleration and braking are key to conserving energy and maximising regenerative braking. Growing up in London gave me an edge: I’ve learned how to ride the “green wave” through traffic lights, keeping momentum and minimising unnecessary repeated stops and starts.
⚡ Smooth inputs reduce wasted energy, extend your range, and make for a calmer drive.
2. Choose slower roads
I deliberately avoided motorways, opting instead for slower, more consistent routes. These roads reduce aerodynamic drag and offer more opportunities for regenerative braking. The trade-off? A slightly longer journey, but one that’s significantly more efficient.
⚡ If time isn’t critical, choosing a slower route can stretch your range and cut charging stops.
3. Keep cool (efficiently)
Instead of cooling the entire cabin, I relied on the EV3’s ventilated seats, which direct airflow through the fabric to keep me and my passengers comfortable while using far less energy than traditional A/C. Combined with smart airflow direction and minimal cabin-wide cooling, this kept consumption low without sacrificing comfort.
⚡ Targeted cooling (or heating) uses less energy and can keep you just as comfortable.
4. Lighten and streamline the load
Extra weight and drag matter. I packed light for the weekend, removing all non-essential items to reduce weight. I did bring my Brompton bike to get to and from my overnight accommodation. It’s compact enough to fit in the boot instead of having a bike on a roof rack, which would have compromised aerodynamics. Removing roof racks and reducing weight make a measurable difference over distance.
⚡ Clearing out your car and removing unused roof racks help you go further and improve overall efficiency.
5. Make the most of the tech
Driving in Eco mode optimised throttle response and climate settings, while enhancing regenerative braking. It’s a simple switch that delivers real efficiency gains.
I also used ZapMap and A Better Route Planner (ABRP) to map out the most efficient route. Even mainstream apps like Google Maps and Waze now offer eco-routing options that prioritise energy efficiency over speed.
⚡ Tapping into the built-in tech and apps your EV already offers can save you miles of charge and make trips stress-free.
This double challenge proved something simple: efficient driving isn’t about going slow or making sacrifices. It’s about small, smart habits that help you travel further, spend less, and enjoy the drive.
A huge thanks to Tates KIA Brighton for lending me the EV3, and to everyone who supported my ride for the British Heart Foundation.
Efficient driving is only part of the story. Taking care of your battery ensures your EV stays efficient for years to come.
Our new partner, ClearWatt, specialises in helping EV drivers and buyers understand and protect their batteries. Through their app, drivers can run independent battery health checks and access clear, trusted reports on real-world range and performance.
⚡ Batteries prefer to be stored in cool temperatures (10-15 °C) and used at room temperature (20-25 °C).
Keep your EV out of direct sunlight where possible.
⚡ Charge slowly where possible as rapid charging stresses the battery.
⚡ Store the battery below 80% and if you’re going away on holiday, drop that to 50%.
⚡ Only charge to 100% when required for longer trips.
⚡ Frequent micro charges are gentler than single, longer charges.
Every EV driver can benefit from efficient driving and proper battery care, whether they’re taking long trips or commuting to work. Small habits, from smooth braking to mindful charging, add up to lower costs and a more enjoyable driving experience.
By following Warren’s practical tips and ClearWatt’s battery advice, you can make the most of your EV, day in and day out. After all, efficiency isn’t just a competition, it’s a way to get further, save more, and enjoy the journey.