Rugged Driving Adventures: Get Your EV Ready For The Ultimate Off-Road Challenge
Electric vehicles are considered to be the perfect cars for city driving since they're easy to park and maneuver in tight spaces, and they're highly efficient in stop and go traffic.
However, EVs have also become increasingly favored for off-roading as newer models are proving their worth in rough terrain. According to a recent survey, consumers who intend to purchase a new EV care more about its off-road appearance and performance above other features.
Those who want to invest in a rugged EV may want to wait a bit before buying one since electric vehicle makers are planning to release new off-roading models within the next 48 months to cope with the demand. This allows you to have more options to choose from so you can pick a ride that suits your taste and driving needs. For now, if you're planning to go on a rugged driving adventure, plan on prepping your current EV to make it more efficient and avoid accidents. Here's how to get your EV ready for the ultimate off-road challenge.
Fortify Your EV
If you're having second thoughts about using your EV for an upcoming off-roading trip, don't fret. Although most electric vehicles have a sleek and sophisticated aesthetic, they’re actually tougher than they look and perform quite well on rough roads. Their regenerative braking feature helps the vehicle to navigate roads safely, especially when descending hills, and their low center of gravity improves overall maneuverability on slippery roads. However, you'll need to prep your EV to protect sensitive components from being damaged during your off-roading adventure.
First, protect your car's underbody by installing skid plates to shield the battery and other parts from damage caused by rocks, and uneven terrain. This involves removing the existing underbody panels and replacing them with metal plates, which provides better undercarriage protection. Next, replace the tires with off-road tires to improve grip on challenging terrain. You'll also need to raise your EV's suspension system to increase ground clearance, improve comfort by reducing vibrations, and potentially improve your car's range.
Prevent Range Anxiety
Range anxiety is a common concern among EV owners, especially drivers who frequently go on long trips since they're dependent on the charger network. This is understandable since getting stranded on an off-roading trip can be a hassle, and it can also be dangerous if you're in unfamiliar territory. To make sure that your batteries never run out of power, use an EV routing app to find charging stations along your route. Many businesses install EV chargers along highways, and you can find them in gas stations, groceries, and convenience stores. Make it a point to plan your route accordingly to avoid range depletion.
Smart driving habits can also help to make your battery's charge go further. For instance, while off-roading, turn off the air conditioner and open the windows to minimize electrical use. You should also moderate your speed and gently accelerate at all times. Maintain a steady speed as much as possible, and choose routes with fewer hills or steep roads to reduce the need for braking and acceleration.
Pack Emergency Gear
Anything can happen while you're on the road, so pack emergency off-roading gear such as a toolbox, a portable power pack, a jump starter, and a tire repair kit. You should also have a winch, a tow strap, and tow hooks to free your EV if ever you get stuck in a deep pothole. Don't forget to bring a solar lamp or LED light, some water, food, a first aid kit, and protective gear such as gloves to protect your hands while handling tools or doing quick repairs.
Going on an off-road adventure can be an exciting experience, so prep your EV well to avoid hassles while on your trip. Don't forget to let other people know about your travel itinerary, and plan your route well so you can stop by charging stations. Happy driving and have fun on the road!