Electric Vehicle Home Journey Tips 2026: Battery Saving Methods and Preconditioning Tricks
Using electric vehicles (EVs) for long journeys during the 2026 holiday season is no longer merely a trend, but rather a rational choice for those seeking comfort and efficiency. However, to ensure smooth long-distance travel without power constraints, drivers must understand proper energy management.
An automotive expert from Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB), Yannes Martinus Pasaribu, explained that the fundamental principle of electric vehicle efficiency is similar to conventional cars: minimising wasted energy.
Driving style is the primary determining factor in conserving battery percentage. According to Yannes, aggressive behaviour such as sudden acceleration and hard braking significantly increases power consumption.
One professional trick that is rarely known is preconditioning. This feature allows users to adjust cabin and battery temperature whilst the vehicle is still connected to a charger.
“With preconditioning, the energy required for cooling does not drain the battery when the journey begins because it is drawn directly from the charger’s power source,” said Yannes.
Before departing, ensure the vehicle’s physical condition is optimal to reduce resistance.
Beyond technical aspects, Yannes reminded drivers not to overexert themselves. Driving for more than two hours without a break can reduce focus, resulting in inefficient driving style and increased accident risk.
Use rest time to perform brief charging top-ups at rest areas. By maintaining a battery buffer of 15-25 percent, drivers can travel with peace of mind without worrying about running out of power during congested periods.
Does turning on the air conditioning drain an electric vehicle’s battery excessively? Yes, air conditioning affects power consumption; however, the preconditioning feature whilst charging can minimise this impact.
What is the ideal speed for battery efficiency on toll roads? A stable speed of 80-90 km/h generally provides the best balance between travel time and energy efficiency in EVs.
Whereas electric vehicle trends were previously associated with fear of missing out (FOMO) phenomena, purchasing decisions are now considered more rational.
Based on Gaikindo wholesale data, throughout 2025 Polytron distributed 455 electric vehicles to dealership networks. From retail sales perspective, 353 units were sold.
The habit of disconnecting the battery, formerly considered effective in preventing battery discharge or short circuits, actually risks creating new problems in modern vehicles.
An ITB expert reminded electric vehicle (EV) and modern car owners not to disconnect the battery during holiday journeys. This action can damage the vehicle’s computer system and memory.