EV Range and Battery

An electric vehicle’s (EV) range indicates just how far it can go on a single charge. Many variables factor into how range is calculated, including battery capacity and charge level, driving habits and conditions, and even weather.

Let’s explore how to get the most out of your EV range.

What is the Range of a Solterra?

The Subaru Solterra EV SUV gets an EPA-estimated range of up to 227 miles, which can accommodate to a variety of driving needs. But, it’s just about the numbers of miles the Solterra can get on a single change, it’s what you’ll be able to do with them that makes this EV SUV unique.

As the first AWD electric vehicle to come standard with the legendary Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, a Solterra is designed to handle the most challenging terrain and weather conditions. It also comes with X-MODE with Hill Descent Control, features that provide unparalled traction and stability not often found in EVs.

On average, most electric vehicles have an EV range of more than 100 miles on a single charge. However, when determining how far an electric car will go, it’s important to remember the various factors that play a role in range potential—as well as all the features a particular EV offers.

For example, the Subaru Solterra EV SUV delivers a competitive range that can accommodate a variety of driving needs, while prioritizing safety and comfort. Designed to handle the most challenging terrains and weather conditions with the same ease and excitement as any combustion engine vehicle, the Solterra is built to provide sustainable power on your daily commute or adventuring on the open road.

EV Range Factors

Multiple factors and variables can affect electric car ranges – including some that may change from trip to trip. To better understand what to expect from your EV and how to plan your drives most efficiently, keep the following factors in mind:

Battery size: The capacity of your battery pack, in kilowatt hours (kWh), plays a role in determining EV range. Typically, the higher the kWh in the battery, it often, but not always, corresponds with higher range for an EV.
Weight of vehicle: A vehicle’s total weight – including passengers, cargo or towing – impacts range. Carrying multiple passengers, packed luggage, or other heavy cargo means that more energy is required to power the vehicle forward and can eat into an EV’s mileage.
Outdoor temperature: EV batteries are sensitive to extreme temperatures. Excessive hot or cold weather requires other systems within the vehicle to work harder, meaning battery efficiency and range can take a hit.
Driving speed and style: Typically, driving at higher speeds requires more energy to maintain. Additionally, aggressive, constant acceleration and deceleration/stopping can waste kinetic energy that could otherwise have been redirected back into the battery through regenerative braking.
Terrain: Trekking over hilly or mountainous areas, or across other challenging terrain like slippery roads, can require more power to scale and maintain proper traction. This can increase energy consumption and deplete your battery faster.
Tire condition: Tires that are properly inflated and replaced regularly as the treads wear can support better efficiency and electric vehicle range.
Interior climate control: Using heating or cooling systems while driving at high levels, particularly in order to counter extreme weather, can drain an EV’s battery faster.

How to Optimize Your Electric Vehicle Range

With some thoughtful driving practices to optimize your energy use, you can maximize the range potential of your EV. Here are a few recommendations for extending battery life.

Focus on driving smoothly, maintaining steady speeds, and coasting whenever possible to encourage redirection of kinetic energy back into the battery.
Avoid overloading your EV with unnecessary cargo or loads to reduce overall weight.
Use your EV’s Eco Mode (if equipped) to engage optimized power pre-settings to conserve battery usage.
Pre-condition the cabin during extreme heat or cold weather to bring the interior to a comfortable temperature while still plugged in. Many EVs, including the Subaru Solterra, are equipped with remote start capability, making cabin pre-conditioning as simple as opening your smartphone app.
Park in covered or shaded areas when you can — especially during excessively hot or cold conditions — to limit extreme temperature fluctuations.
Assess your EV’s condition periodically, making sure to perform recommended factory service and keep tires properly inflated.

Keep Your Battery Happy

As with any devices or electronics powered by a rechargeable battery, EVs perform at their best and over the longest time when properly taken care of. Likewise, taking care of your EV battery will help it to reach its optimal range and efficiency:

Avoid letting the battery deplete completely.
Opt for Level 1 and Level 2 EV charging whenever possible. Reserve fast charging (at Level 3/DCFC stations) for when you really need it.
When you must fast-charge, avoid charging over 80% unless you need the extra range for a longer trip.
To accommodate regular/daily use, keep your EV plugged into its Level 1 or Level 2 home charger.
Limit your battery’s/EV’s exposure to extreme temperatures.
Install regular software updates as they become available from the manufacturer.

Explore Subaru Electric Vehicles

The Subaru Solterra, our first all-electric offering, and the upcoming Trailseeker EV are made to be an exciting, adventure-ready companion for anyone that wants to reduce their carbon footprint without sacrificing the rugged capabilities Subaru is known for.

Discover the Solterra and Trailseeker today!

Explore the Subaru Solterra

Explore the Subaru Trailseeker