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7 Must-Know Driving Tips for First-Time EV Owners
By Product Expert | Posted in Tips and Info on Tuesday, April 29th, 2025 at 4:47 am
Driving Tips for New Electric Car Owners in Milwaukee, WI
Whether you’re zipping through Waukesha or cruising the Lakefront, your EV is ready to roll. At Von Schledorn Auto Group, we’re seeing more drivers go electric. But there’s a bit of a learning curve, especially when it comes to everyday driving habits. That’s why we’ve compiled our favorite driving tips for new electric car owners in Milwaukee, WI! This guide will help you protect your range, boost your battery life, and enjoy the ride a little more.
7 Driving Tips Every New EV Owner Should Know
Know Your Range and Plan Ahead
Before every drive, check your battery level. Google Maps and other apps now help you map EV-friendly routes. If you’re headed north during a snowy Milwaukee winter, know where those charging stations are before you leave the driveway. Moreover, don’t just trust the range estimate on your screen. Hills, heat, and highway speeds can all change your mileage.
Use Regenerative Braking to Your Advantage
Regenerative braking captures energy when you slow down. That energy gets sent right back to your battery. First-time EV drivers may find this strange. But once you get used to the feeling, it’s kind of addictive. Try lifting your foot off the accelerator earlier than usual. The car will gently slow down and recharge at the same time.
Watch Your Speed, Especially on Highways
Driving at 75 mph on I-94 may feel great, but it quickly eats up battery life. If you want to go farther between charges, keep your speed moderate. Use cruise control if you’re traveling long distances. It helps conserve energy and keeps you smooth on the pedal.
Don’t Wait Until Your Battery Hits 0%
While running out of charge is inconvenient, it can also harm your battery. Try to keep your EV battery between 20% and 80% for day-to-day use. Charging to 100% is fine before a long trip, but it’s not needed all the time. Moreover, use Level 1 or Level 2 chargers whenever possible. DC fast charging is great in a pinch, but too much of it can wear your battery down faster.
Be Ready for Winter Driving in Milwaukee
Cold temperature affects batteries. If you’re not seeing the range you’re used to, don’t panic. It’s normal in Wisconsin winters. Preheat your car while it’s still plugged in. That way, you’re using the grid’s energy to warm things up. Furthermore, check your tire pressure regularly in winter. Cold air causes tires to deflate, which reduces efficiency and traction.
Get Familiar with Local EV Incentives
Check local power companies or government programs. Some offer lower electricity rates for charging during off-peak hours. Others provide rebates on home charging equipment.
Keep Your Software Updated
EVs run on software more than hardware. Many updates improve battery performance, infotainment, and even driving dynamics. Check your owner’s manual or onboard screen for update notifications. Moreover, some vehicles let you update over Wi-Fi while parked in your garage.
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Driving electric is a blast. But it comes with a few changes. These driving tips for new electric car owners in Milwaukee, WI, are designed to help you drive smarter, longer, and more confidently. Whether you want to learn more about EVs or get your EV serviced, Von Schledorn Auto Group is here for all your EV needs.
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