Taking a long drive with multiple charging stops planned out. It’s a bit annoying to stop, but I love my truck, so it’s worth it! Trying to find the best cruising speed to get there efficiently without too many charges. Does it make sense to drive slower to save battery and cut down charging time, or should I keep a faster pace?
Here’s a chart I found that shows speed vs. efficiency.
Adding Source: https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/2023-ford-f-150-lightning-xlt-yearlong-review-update-3-road-trip-speed/
North said:
Here’s a chart I found that shows speed vs. efficiency.
From my experience, this lines up with real driving. I stick to around 70 mph, and it feels right.
North said:
Here’s a chart I found that shows speed vs. efficiency.
Why the downvotes? This is based on solid testing data about highway speeds!
North said:
Here’s a chart I found that shows speed vs. efficiency.
Yeah, this chart is pretty accurate. From what I’ve seen, the best range/speed balance is between 65-75 mph. Go faster, and you spend more time charging; slower, and you’re on the road longer.
North said:
Here’s a chart I found that shows speed vs. efficiency.
Good info, but I’d like to know the kWh used for each speed. That would really complete the picture.
North said:
Here’s a chart I found that shows speed vs. efficiency.
What does ‘MT road trip range’ mean? Montana? MotorTrend?
North said:
Here’s a chart I found that shows speed vs. efficiency.
What does ‘MT road trip range’ mean? Montana? MotorTrend?
Pretty sure it’s MotorTrend.
North said:
Here’s a chart I found that shows speed vs. efficiency.
What does ‘MT road trip range’ mean? Montana? MotorTrend?
Yep, MotorTrend. They put together the chart.
Here’s the link
I always drive mountain passes at about 73 mph and get roughly 200 miles per charge before needing to stop. Works out well for breaks too, since 200 miles is around 3 hours of driving. The kids can stretch, and we can all get a break.
Sure, you can go further by driving slower (60 mph helps a lot), but I just stick with my usual speed.
@Tobi
Same here. When I’m charging at max speeds, I have just enough time to use the restroom, grab some food, and get back, hitting around 80%. Even with kids, 15-20 minutes flies by. Realistically, charging isn’t much longer than refueling an ICE vehicle when you add time for food and bathroom breaks.
@Sky
Right! Most people take about 15 minutes for refueling stops on long trips, according to AAA. It’s hard to go much faster.
Slower speeds definitely help.
Lyle said:
Slower speeds definitely help.
Guess staying parked is the ultimate way to save range!
I usually drive around 67 or 68.
Toby said:
I usually drive around 67 or 68.
Not into 69, huh?
Over 77 mph, the battery drains quickly. Fortunately, there are enough chargers on major highways that I don’t need to worry too much about slowing down.
For EVs, the best approach is to drive fast and charge to around 80%. Just use apps like ABRP or your truck’s route planner, and it’ll calculate your stops. For example, I get around 2.2 miles per kWh at 65 mph and about 1.8 at 75 mph in summer weather.
@Eli
Same here. I recently followed a truck at 65 mph with adaptive cruise on, and I averaged around 2.5 mi/kWh. Felt like a super relaxing drive too!
Chen said:
@Eli
Same here. I recently followed a truck at 65 mph with adaptive cruise on, and I averaged around 2.5 mi/kWh. Felt like a super relaxing drive too!
If you draft two car lengths behind a semi at 67 mph, you can boost your range. I tried it on a recent trip, and it helped restore my range buffer. Great hack for road trips!