Congratulations on getting yourself an amazing Ola Electric S1!
It’s sleek, it’s eco-friendly, and it’s buzzing with all that electric power.
But wait, are you feeling a tad bit anxious about the range?
Don’t worry, you’re not alone.
Many new electric vehicle (EV) owners experience what’s commonly known as “range anxiety.”
But fear not, with a few smart strategies, I will help you kick range anxiety to the curb and enjoy your electric ride with confidence.
Let’s dive in!
1. Understand Your Ola S1’s Range
Advertised vs. Real-world Mileage: The Ola S1 boasts a range of 125 km, which is a great indicator under ideal conditions.
But in real-world riding scenarios, with traffic signals, frequent starts and stops, and maybe a bit of spirited acceleration, the actual range can settle around 90-100 km.
This is normal and shouldn’t raise any alarms.
Think of it as similar to car mileage – the highway mileage is different from city traffic mileage.
The good news is that 90-100 km is still sufficient for most daily commutes within a city.
2. Plan Your Rides
Download the Ola Electric app and consider it your electric pit crew!
This app acts as a roadmap for your scooter, showing you the location of charging stations in your vicinity.
So, if you’re planning a longer ride that stretches your scooter’s legs, you can factor in strategic charging stops to keep your anxiety at bay.
And don’t be a stranger to charging points!
Many public places in your city are now embracing EVs and offering charging infrastructure.
Malls, office buildings, and even some cafes are stepping up and installing charging stations.
Familiarizing yourself with these locations will give you peace of mind on extended journeys, knowing you can easily plug in and top up your battery.
3. Maximize Those Kilometers
Quick bursts of acceleration from a standstill are fun, but they also guzzle battery power much faster.
Developing a smooth, steady riding style with controlled acceleration will significantly improve your range.
The S1 comes with three riding modes: Eco, City, and Sport.
Think of Eco mode as your battery-saving superhero.
It’s ideal for cruising and maximizing your range.
City mode offers a good balance between performance and efficiency for everyday riding.
And Sport mode, well, that’s for when you want to unleash the full power of the electric motor, but use it judiciously if you’re concerned about range.
Always lighten up!
The more weight you carry on your scooter, the harder the motor has to work to maintain speed, and the faster the battery drains.
So, for shorter trips, maybe suggest your friend leave their extra helmet at home (they can grab one on their scooter if needed!). Every little bit counts!
4. How Climate Affects Range
Just like us humans, batteries don’t love extreme cold weather.
Cold temperatures can reduce the performance of your Ola S1’s battery by up to 20%.
So, on those chilly mornings, you might need to factor in a shorter range.
5. Tips for Optimal Battery Health
It’s generally better for the battery’s health to regularly top up the charge rather than completely draining it and then giving it a 0 to 100% charge.
Aim for around 80% as your regular charging target.
This will optimize battery life and also ensure you’re always prepared for those impromptu rides.
The S1’s fast charger is a game-changer. It can take your scooter from 0 to 100% in about 5.5 hours, perfect for situations where you need a quick turnaround at home or the office.
Final Thoughts
By following these tips and becoming familiar with your Ola S1’s range, you can conquer range anxiety and turn it into an adventure in optimizing your electric scooter experience!
Remember, a little planning, some smart riding habits, and utilizing the available charging infrastructure can significantly improve your confidence and range.
So, relax, enjoy the ride, and welcome to the exciting world of electric scooters!
