Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate are the calculations?
The EV specs (battery size, range, ...) come from manufacturer data and real-world testing. Temperature adjustments are based on research showing battery performance drops ~10-20% in cold weather.
That said, real-world results vary based on driving style, terrain, and specific conditions. Vehicle load, heating or air conditioning use, and even tire pressure also impact range.
Treat the numbers as estimates, not guarantees.
Why are your estimates conservative?
We intentionally make simplifying assumptions that err on the side of caution:
- No regenerative braking is modeled - Real EVs recover 10-30% of energy through regen braking, so your actual range will likely be better than our estimates.
- WLTP/EPA ranges used as baseline - Lab test ranges are optimistic, but real-world range in optimal conditions is typically 10-15% lower. Our temperature adjustments compensate for this.
- Charging times slightly underestimated - We don't account for ~13% AC charging efficiency losses, so actual charging may take slightly longer.
Can I add my own EV model?
Yes! There's a "Custom EV" option where you can enter your own battery size, range, and consumption values. Perfect if your EV isn't in our database yet.
How much does cold weather affect EV range?
Cold weather typically reduces EV range by 10-20% at 0°C (32°F) and up to 30-40% at -10°C (14°F) or colder. This happens because batteries are less efficient in cold temperatures, and you're using energy for cabin heating.
EVCourse's calculator accounts for these temperature effects in its range estimates. Our temperature adjustments include typical HVAC usage (heating/cooling) for that temperature.
Can I charge an EV at home without a special charger?
Yes! You can charge using a standard household outlet (Level 1 charging at ~1.4 kW), though it's slow - about 6-8 km of range per hour. A dedicated Level 2 charger (7-11 kW) charges 5-10x faster but requires professional installation.
EVCourse lets you configure your actual charging power to see realistic charging schedules.
How often do I need to charge an electric vehicle?
It depends on your daily driving and battery size. For a typical 60 km daily commute with a 400 km range EV, you might charge 1-2 times per week.
Use EVCourse to enter your specific commute, and the weekly chart shows exactly when you'll need to charge based on your schedule.
Will an EV work for road trips?
Yes, but planning is key. Modern EVs can handle road trips with fast charging stops every 200-300 km.
EVCourse focuses on daily commuting patterns, but if your weekly assessment shows the EV easily handles your regular driving, occasional road trips are manageable with charging network planning.
What's the difference between WLTP and real-world EV range?
WLTP (Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure) is a standardized lab test. Real-world range is typically 10-30% lower due to weather, highway speeds, heating/AC use, and driving style.
EVCourse uses manufacturer WLTP/EPA ranges but applies real-world adjustments for temperature and highway driving to give more accurate estimates.
How long does it take to charge an electric vehicle?
Charging time depends on battery size and charging power. At 7 kW (home charging), a 60 kWh battery takes ~8 hours for a full charge. At 50 kW (fast charging), it takes ~1 hour to 80%.
EVCourse calculates overnight charging: if you specify 7 kW charging power, it shows how much range you recover during your charging days.
Should I buy a used electric vehicle?
Used EVs can be great value. Key considerations: battery health (most retain 80-90% capacity after 5-8 years), warranty coverage, and charging infrastructure access.
Use EVCourse's Custom EV option to enter the used vehicle's current battery capacity and real-world range to assess if it fits your needs.
What if I don't have access to home charging?
No home charging makes EV ownership harder but not impossible. You'll rely on workplace or public charging.
In EVCourse, set your charging schedule to only the days you can access charging (work days, for example). The calculator shows if this is sufficient or if you need additional public fast charging sessions.
How much does EV charging cost compared to gasoline?
EVCourse focuses on range and charging feasibility rather than costs, which vary widely by electricity rates and gas prices. Generally, electricity is 50-70% cheaper than gasoline per km, but exact savings depend on your local rates.
Use the assessment to confirm the EV meets your needs, then calculate costs separately based on your electricity tariff.
What's the difference between an EV and a hybrid?
EVs (electric vehicles) run only on battery power and need charging. Hybrids combine gasoline engines with small batteries. Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) can drive ~50 km on electricity before switching to gas.
EVCourse is designed for pure EVs, but you can use Custom EV to assess PHEVs by entering their electric-only range.
Why build this?
Frustration with vague EV marketing. "Up to 500km range!" doesn't tell you if it'll work for your 80km daily commute in -10°C weather.
I wanted a tool that gives real answers. For example, "You'll use 60% of your battery daily and need to charge 3 times a week."
What happens to my data?
Nothing. It stays in your browser. When you close the tab, it's gone (unless you bookmarked the share URL).
Why no authentication / accounts?
Because you don't need them. Bookmarking a share URL gives you the same result. Your configuration, available anytime, on any device.
Who made this?
Nina, an engineer / FE developer in the Nordics who likes building practical tools with "boring" technology. Contact:
Can I suggest features?
Yes, please! Email suggestions to