How EV ready are you?

Are you more of an EV learner or a power user? Take the test and find out

Just got your first EV, or maybe thinking about taking the plunge? Not sure if you’re up to speed on how to be an EV ace? Don’t worry, you can test your knowledge and get all the know-how you need to turn you from novice to pro in one quick read.  

How full should your battery be? 

1. What’s the optimum battery charge? 

2. It doesn’t matter 

3. 10-90% 

4. 20-80% 

Keeping your battery charged above 20% and up to 80% can be the best way to help preserve battery life while maintaining optimum performance. EVs typically have onboard technology to prevent damage, so it doesn’t mean you should never go outside these bounds. But sticking to them has been shown to help. Some EVs even limit or slow charging when you reach 80% - check your vehicle manual if you’re not sure.  Want to manage your charging from your phone? Download the bp pulse app  Are you looped in on cable safety? 

1. When should you pull out your charging cable?   

2. Just yank it out whenever, it’s fine 

3. When my EV is at the percentage I want 

4. When my vehicle shows an unplug symbol 

You should always wait until your EV is ready to disconnect. Every EV is different so you should consult your owner’s manual to be sure you understand its safety features correctly. Unplugging when the vehicle and the charging station are not ready can damage both your vehicle and the charging station equipment. So even if you’re in a rush take a moment to disconnect properly.  Manage your charging times the easy way – download the bp pulse app   How’s your EV etiquette 

1. How do you pick a charging space? 

2. It doesn’t matter 

3. The one that’s on the most convenient side  

4. One where no-one else is charging 

Most charging units serve two charging bays, with a cable for each. Pick a totally empty one if you’re charging at a location with multiple charging units. When two people share a charging unit it can slow the charge down for both users. So it’s good etiquette and good sense for you to pick one that is completely free. Find available chargers quickly – download the bp pulse app  EVs are autos, but did you read the manual? 

1. What do you need to know about your EV before you go? 

2. Where the charge socket is maybe 

3. The type of plug I have and my maximum charge rate 

4. All of the above 

Make sure you know what type of cable you can use for your specific EV. You don’t want to turn up at a charging point, low on charge, only to discover you can’t plug in. You should also check the max charge rate of your vehicle, there’s no point looking for ultrafast charging if your vehicle can’t charge at the max speed available. And just like knowing where your filler cap is on a petrol or diesel vehicle, it helps to know where you need to plug in on your vehicle. It means you can park in the bay the right way round first time.  To view chargers by type and speed with live availability – download the bp pulse app  Are you chill about driving in all weather? 

1. How does weather affect your EV 

2. It doesn’t 

3. I’ll use more charge 

4. Range and charging speeds are affected 

In cold weather EV batteries are slower to charge and can deliver less stored energy. You’ll also find that keeping your car comfortably warm uses up charge too. Leaving your car on charge to pre-conditioning your battery and interior if possible are good ways to mitigate this. But you should plan for less range the colder it gets. On the flip side, you might find charging speeds slow down in hot weather to avoid damage to your battery or the charging equipment. We’ve got a thorough guide on EVs and weather if you want to know more. Make sure you can find your nearest charger – download the bp pulse app   How did you do? Mostly a. 
We love the happy-go-lucky approach, but putting some more time and planning into your EV ownership will probably improve your safety and enjoyment. Mostly b. 
You’re getting there, but you’ve still got a little way to go. You can plug the gaps in your knowledge by reading our handy EV guides and articles. Mostly c. 
Wow you’re really on it with your EV knowledge, you’re probably thinking about heading off on some kind of EV adventure maybe you’d like our EV road trip guide.  However you got on, we hope you enjoy your EV and remember you can always make EV ownership easier if you download the bp pulse app.