Autumn Driving Tips for EV Drivers

The clocks go back, the mornings feel crisp, and the roads start to gather their first layer of fallen leaves. Autumn in the UK is a beautiful season, but it can also make driving a little more challenging, especially if you’re behind the wheel of an electric vehicle.

From cooler temperatures affecting your battery to slippery roads and darker evenings, here are some practical tips to keep your EV journeys smooth, safe and stress-free this autumn.

1. Be aware of battery performance in cooler weather

As the temperature drops, your EV’s range can reduce by around 10–20%. This isn’t a fault; it’s simply how batteries respond in the cold. To stay on top of it:

• Precondition your car while it’s still plugged in. This warms the battery and mains power rather than draining your charge.

• Keep your EV topped up more often than you might in summer, so you’re never caught short.

• If you have home charging, take advantage of overnight top-ups when electricity tariffs may be cheaper.

  
  

2. Adjust regenerative braking for slippery conditions

Autumn roads can be covered with rain, wet leaves, or even early frost. High regenerative braking can cause wheels to slip in low-grip conditions.

• If your car allows, turn regen down a notch in wet conditions for smoother braking.

• Always brake earlier and more gently than you think you need to.

  
  

3. Give your tyres extra attention

Tyres play an even bigger role on EVs because of their extra weight. In autumn, good grip is essential.

• Check tread depth; 3mm is recommended for autumn/winter.

• Monitor tyre pressure weekly. Colder mornings can cause pressure to drop, so don’t rely on your last summer reading.

  
  

4. Maximise your visibility

Shorter days mean more driving in the dark. Combined with autumn rain, fog and mist, visibility can be a challenge.

• Check and clean your headlights regularly.

• Replace wiper blades if they’re smearing or squeaking.

• Use your EV’s pre-heat/demist function before setting off to keep windows clear.

  
  

5. Plan charging stops with extra time

Autumn can bring unexpected traffic delays, from heavy rain slowing traffic to roadworks and leaf-fall hazards.

• If you’re heading out on a longer journey, build in a buffer for charging.

• Apps like Zap-Map make it easy to see charger availability in real time.

  
  

6. Pack an autumn emergency kit

Whether you drive petrol, diesel or electric, a seasonal kit can make a big difference if you get caught out.

• Keep a blanket, torch, gloves and power bank in the boot.

• Top up your screen wash more often, autumn grime can be relentless.

• For EV drivers: keep charging cables clean and dry and consider carrying a backup RFID card or contactless option for public charging networks.

Final thought

Driving an EV in autumn doesn’t have to be complicated, it just takes a little more preparation. Keep your battery happy, your tyres in check and your visibility clear, and you’ll be set for safe and comfortable journeys all season long.

And when your journey ends, having access to reliable charging is just as important as how you got there. That’s where Go Zero comes in – helping hotels across the UK provide simple, seamless EV charging for their guests. Whether you’re travelling for business or pleasure, knowing your hotel is EV-ready makes the whole experience stress-free.

If you run a hotel and want to attract the growing number of EV drivers, find out how Go Zero can make your property an EV-ready destination this autumn.