8 Common Mistakes Every New EV Owner Makes

Electric Vehicles (EVs) are becoming popular in India, but for new owners, driving an EV feels like entering a completely new world. Based on my personal experience with the Tata Nexon EV 45 kWh, here are the most common mistakes new EV owners make—and how you can easily avoid them.

1. Delaying Charging Until the Last Minute

Mistake: Waiting until the battery drops below 10% before charging.
Solution: Start charging when your EV reaches 20–25%. This not only keeps your journey stress-free but also helps maintain battery health.

2. Using Fast Chargers All the Time

Mistake: Relying only on DC fast charging.
Solution: Fast charging is useful, but frequent use can affect battery life. Use AC slow charging at home, hotels, or overnight stays whenever possible.

3. Not Planning Road Trips Properly

Mistake: Hitting the road without checking charging stations.
Solution: Always plan your trip using apps like PlugShare or Tata Ira App. On my road trips from Agra to Rameshwaram, Kerala and Nepal pre-planning has saved me many times.

4. Ignoring Tyre Pressure

Mistake: Driving with under-inflated tyres can reduce range by 10–15%.
Solution: Check and maintain recommended tyre pressure before every trip for maximum efficiency.

5. Driving Like a Petrol/Diesel Car

Mistake: Aggressive acceleration and high-speed driving.
Solution: Drive your EV with smooth acceleration and regenerative braking. This gives you the best possible range.

6. Not Maintaining AC Temperature Wisely

Mistake: Many EV owners keep the AC at the lowest temperature (like 16–18°C) which drains the battery faster.
Solution: Keep your AC at 22–25°C with proper ventilation. This ensures comfort and also saves range on long trips.

7. Skipping Software Updates

Mistake: Ignoring over-the-air (OTA) updates.
Solution: Updates often improve range, charging speed, and add features. Always keep your EV’s software up to date.

8. Not Following Charging Etiquette

Mistake: Leaving your car parked at the charger after it’s fully charged.
Solution: Move your car once charging is complete so others can use the station without delay.

Final Thoughts

If you’re a new EV owner, avoiding these mistakes will make your experience smooth and stress-free. Driving an EV is not just about saving money—it’s a new lifestyle. With proper planning and care, it can be far better than owning a petrol or diesel car.