Based on Honda’s 30+ years of EV and hybrid innovation, we’ve put together these expert-backed tips to help you get the most out of your new Honda e:Ny1. Once you’ve got your head around charging, as opposed to filling up with petrol or diesel, it really is very straightforward. To assist you we’ve put together some hints and tips to help you get the most out of your e:Ny1.
Configure and Buy Smart charging starts at home
The most economical way to charge your e:Ny1 is at home via a dedicated EV charger. According to the Energy Saving Trust UK, dedicated EV chargers are up to 3x faster and safer than 3-pin plugs.
Speak to your energy provider about switching to a dedicated EV tariff – they typically offer cheaper electricity rates at off-peak times, normally overnight, when demand on the National Grid is low, saving you hundreds of pounds per year.
EV smart apps are your new best friend
If you’re looking to charge your e:Ny1 whilst out and about, using an app or website such as Zap-Map or ChargeMap will allow you to compare real-time prices, find charging availability and pay on the go. Of course, you don’t need to use an app if you don’t want, as many charging points take contactless card payments.
Look out for rapid chargers
Rapid chargers add battery range in a short amount of time. For example, you can get a 60-mile top up in just 11 minutes, whilst raising your battery charge level from 10% to 80% takes approximately 45 minutes*.
Rapid charging stations can be found across the UK at motorway services, A-road petrol stations and at dedicated charging hubs. Naturally, the e:Ny1 comes with all the charging cables you need, meaning charging your Honda at home or away is easy, whilst the My Honda+ app lets you see how fast your EV is charging, even when you’re not in the car.
80% charged = 100% smart
Contrary to what you think might be best, you should avoid charging your EV to 100% unless you go on a long journey, as it can reduce your battery’s health over time. It’s recommended that you aim for 20 – 80% - the 80/20 rule means charging to 80% when it drops to 20%.
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Use Eco mode to extend your range
Choosing Eco mode on your EV prioritises energy conservation by reducing the throttle response, and adjusting the air conditioning, heated seats, and the heated steering wheel (model dependent) to maintain the driver’s perceived temperature for a more economical drive. Using the heated seats and heated steering wheel uses less energy than the main heating system, so in the winter this can help maximise your EV’s range. What’s more, the intelligent central console screen in your e:Ny1 can show you how much energy your air con is using, allowing you to decide whether to switch it off.
Make use of regenerative braking
Your e:Ny1 has regenerative braking which means when you take your foot off the accelerator the motor stops powering the wheels and starts to slow, without the need to use the brake pedal. The kinetic energy generated doing this is fed back into the battery replenishing the range, in effect giving you free energy. It also has the benefit of making your brake pads last longer, so win win!
Slow and steady delivers greater battery range
Lowering your speed slightly uses less energy, so if you’re trying to maximise your e:Ny1’s efficiency. Maintaining a consistent speed by anticipating other road users can help too, as can using cruise control on the motorway and ensuring your tyres are inflated to the correct pressures.
Route planning
Planning your journey to ensure the most efficient route can help optimise your energy usage and prevent range anxiety. Some routes may be slightly longer in terms of miles but may avoid steep gradients or traffic conditions that could impact efficiency. Unlike petrol and diesel vehicles, EVs can be more economical in towns and cities due to the lower speeds and stop / start traffic where regenerative braking can be used.
Cheaper, greener charging with Honda e:PROGRESS
You can save money, time and carbon by using Honda e:PROGRESS. The intuitive, easy to use app is an intelligent charging solution that connects your e:Ny1 with any charger and tariff. Visit our dedicated e:PROGRESS website to see how much it could save you. It’s free for the first 12 months when you buy an e:Ny1 and could save you over £1,400 per year.
e:PROGRESS
Climate management
As we mentioned, the heating and cooling system are both powered by the battery, so if you’re going on a long journey and want to max out your battery’s range try pre-conditioning. Using the My Honda+ app you can set your e:Ny1 to warm up or cool down before getting in, meaning the temperature is being powered by the mains electricity when it’s plugged in and not the battery. What’s more, My Honda+ is free for the first 3 years when you buy an e:Ny1.
So, there you have it, some useful tips to help you get the most out of your e:Ny1.
For more details on EV charging visit our dedicated guide.
Configure and BuyRelated Reading:
* Indicative charge times shown, for comparison purposes. e:Ny1 AC on-board charger is three phase and has a max charging capacity of 11kW. A charge from 10 - 100% can be achieved in approximately 6.3 hours with 22kW AC charger and 1.7 hours using a 50kW DC charger, in optimal conditions such as a temperature around 25°C. See website for full details.