National grid capacity isn’t the big problem most people think. So far, the market entry of EVs in the EU has been very predictable and the electric grid is constantly being developed in parallel. is no need for new electricity-generation capacity in the near future. Utility companies have had the time to plan ahead. However, the situation is country-specific. For example, in northern Europe, the evolution is more effortless because of the strong power grids and electric heating already in place. In other areas of Europe, the evolution is a bit more difficult due to the one-phase energy systems and older structures. But this is being adddressed at speed.In fact there is an ‘unexpected’ twist to this answer as electric vehicles can provide a vital source of flexibility in the energy system. Rather than being a threat to grid stability or capacity, EVs act as big batteries on wheels. They make it possible for energy to be stored and used at a later time. In the next few years, we will have a pool of EV chargers utilised as aggregated reserves. 

Cold weather can indeed temporarily reduce EV battery range by about 10-12%. But nowadays, most EVs have a reach of 250-300 km anyway. Easily enough for a daily commute. And thanks to their design, they are far more efficient than people think in winter. They perform arguably better in snow than conventional cars due to the low position of the battery and resulting lower centre of gravity.
This boosts an EV’s traction and its ability to handle snowy and icy conditions. This gives you greater control. What’s more, you can preheat your EV via the MINI App and always get into a warm, cosy cockpit without any iced-up windows to deal with. And if you preheat while charging, you won’t lose any energy at all. Which is good for you and road safety

When it comes to range, the MINI Electric has up to 234 km (WLTP). That’s more than enough for most trips you can imagine. It’s just a question of thinking how much range you use, and where you use it.

One important external factor influencing the performance and capacity of a battery is the temperature. As you probably know from your mobile phone battery, the performance is restricted in cold and hot temperatures. In your vehicle, however, this temperature influence is largely minimised by means of optimised operating strategies. And did you know that the capacity also yields information on the range you may have? Apart from temperature, other influential factors are devices in use, such as the air conditioning, the load carried – and your driving style.

EVs are safe to drive in the rain and snow and can even be taken through traditional car washes. Similarly, EV chargers and cables are waterproof, and charging sockets are protected against water damage. 

As is the case for a vehicle with a conventional propulsion system, driving style also affects the range in an electric car. As a general rule, an anticipatory, relaxed and uniform style of driving optimises your range. If, for example, you reduce your speed on the motorway from 130 km/h to 110 km/h, you can noticeably increase your range. During recuperation, that means whenever you lift your foot from the accelerator pedal, kinetic energy is converted into electrical energy and fed into the battery – and as a result you gain further kilometres in range.

It’s best to maintain a charge of between 20 and 80 per cent. Lower or higher levels are possible, but to optimise the life of your battery, it is recommended to stay between these marks. In your vehicle’s menu, you can easily and conveniently set your target charge to 80 per cent, so you’ll never have to worry about it. This should cover all your daily driving needs. If you actually need more, simply set a higher target.