Do You Really Need a Big Battery in Your EV?
Bigger is better. Right!?
When choosing an electric car, one of the biggest decisions is battery size. More range sounds great—less charging, more freedom, and peace of mind. But here’s the truth: most of us drastically overestimate how far we drive.
According to government data, the average UK driver covers less than 20 miles a day. Even smaller EV batteries can comfortably deliver 150–200 miles on a single charge—more than enough for several days of normal use. So unless you're regularly clocking up motorway miles, the larger battery may not be doing you any real favours.
Bigger Battery, Bigger Costs
Opting for a larger battery adds thousands to the price of the car and increases its weight. Heavier cars use more energy, which means slightly higher charging costs and more wear on tyres and brakes. More importantly, the added manufacturing impact of a bigger battery increases the carbon footprint of the car—ironic, when most drivers go electric to reduce their environmental impact.
What Matters More Than Range?
Rather than chasing the biggest battery, focus on:
1. Charging at Home
Having a reliable home charger is arguably the most important factor in EV ownership. Plug in overnight, and you’ll always start the day with a full “tank.” This makes smaller batteries even more practical, especially if you’re not relying on public chargers every week.
2. Rapid Charging Speed
When you do travel long distances, the speed at which your car can charge on a rapid charger matters more than battery size. A car that adds 100+ miles in 15–20 minutes makes pit stops short and efficient—no need for a massive battery to avoid charging altogether.
In Summary: Don’t overbuy on battery size. It costs more, weighs more, and may offer range you never use. Instead, focus on your real driving habits, make sure you can charge at home, and look for a car that charges quickly when you're on the go. That’s how you get the most financial and environmental value out of driving electric.
