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With these simple tricks, you’ll get to your winter sports destination faster and more efficiently
The mountains are coming into view and the snow (and après-ski) is calling. But… you’re not there yet. Heading off on a winter sports trip with your electric car doesn’t just require smart preparation, but also a few energy-efficient habits during the drive. With these tips, you’ll get the most out of your battery and arrive relaxed at the foot of the slopes.
Speed is the enemy: cruise instead of racing
The (German) motorway beckons, your right foot is itching… but speed and your EV battery are not friends. If you drive at 130 km/h instead of 120, you actually lose more than you gain.
By driving more slowly, you significantly reduce the resistance the motor has to overcome. This leads to lower energy consumption and a longer driving range. The extra minutes you “lose” by taking it easy are regained because you have to stop and charge less often. One charging stop less can easily save you half an hour!
Heat smart: seat and steering wheel heating as your secret weapon
Heating your entire car to a cosy 22°C? That eats up energy—and therefore battery capacity. Seat and steering wheel heating, on the other hand, are surprisingly efficient and comfortable.
Targeted warmth: you warm up quickly without having to heat the entire air mass inside the car. Think of it like an electric blanket in bed: the bedroom can stay cool, yet you’re perfectly warm under the blanket.
Lower consumption, more comfort: steering wheel and seat heating use far less energy than the general heating system. Extra range without feeling cold!
Drive eco, think eco
Almost every electric car has a dedicated eco mode. This manages energy consumption in the most efficient way:
Less power, more range: the car limits performance where possible and balances power and efficiency.
Smart features switch off: eco mode usually reduces unnecessary energy consumers such as air conditioning.
In short: let smart technology do the work and put your car in eco mode!
The 20–80% rule: charge smart, drive smart
Charging right up to the last percent may sound logical, but it isn’t efficient. Fast chargers are designed for quick top-ups, not for charging all the way to 100%:
Start charging around 20%: this gives you enough buffer without stress, especially in cold weather.
Fast-charge up to 80%: beyond that, charging speed drops noticeably and sessions take much longer. It also protects your battery.
The last 20% takes twice as long: save yourself time—an extra short stop almost always beats waiting around.
Handy tip: set the fast charger as your destination in your navigation system.
If your car has a preconditioning function, it will start warming up the battery in advance for the next charging stop.
Note: this function isn’t automatically enabled in every car, as it consumes energy to heat or cool the battery. So check whether your car supports it and how to activate it.
Save time, comfort and driving range
With these smart habits, your EV journey to the winter sports destination becomes not only more sustainable, but above all calmer and more predictable.
Curious about tips for your EV once you’ve arrived at your winter destination?
Then check out this article