Whether you’re cruising down the Chennai-Trichy Highway (NH38) or heading towards Dindigul, highway driving is the ultimate test for an EV’s range. While the ARAI numbers look great on paper, real-world highway range depends on how you “play the wind.”
At Kaveri Tata (Piratiyur & Thiruvanaikoil), we’ve analyzed data from hundreds of local owners. Here is our “insider” guide to squeezing every last kilometer out of your Nexon.ev or Punch.ev while navigating the heart of Tamil Nadu.
The “Sweet Spot” (70–80 km/h)
On the open stretches of the Trichy-Madurai road, the temptation to hit 100+ km/h is high. However, aerodynamics are the enemy of range.
- The 80 km/h Rule: Driving at 80 km/h instead of 100 km/h can increase your range by as much as 20-25%.
- Use Cruise Control: Our highways are relatively flat. Set your cruise control to 75 km/h; it maintains a steady current draw far better than a human foot can.
- Avoid “Sport” Mode: Keep it in Eco Mode for the highway. It smoothens throttle response, preventing the sudden “power spikes” that drain the battery during overtakes.
Managing the Trichy Heat
Trichy’s high temperatures (often crossing 38°C) make your battery’s cooling system work overtime.
- Pre-Conditioning: Before leaving your home or the Kaveri Piratiyur showroom, use the ZConnect app to cool the cabin while the car is still plugged into the charger. This uses grid power to cool the battery and interior, saving your battery for the road.
- The 24°C AC Setting: Setting your AC to 18°C is a range killer. Keep it at 23°C or 24°C with the fan on speed 2. It’s plenty cool for the cabin but significantly lighter on the battery.
Regen Strategy: Coasting vs. Braking
Unlike city driving where “Regen Level 3” is king, highway driving requires a different touch.
- Level 1 or 2 for Highways: On the highway, momentum is your friend. Level 3 regen can be too aggressive, causing the car to jerk when you lift off, which then requires more energy to speed back up. Level 1 allows you to “coast” longer, using the car’s natural kinetic energy.
- Predictive Slowing: When approaching the Samayapuram Toll or the Palpanai Roundabout, lift off early and let Level 2 regen bring you down to speed gradually rather than using the physical brakes at the last second.
Local Charging Strategy for Long Runs
Don’t wait for the 10% warning. Trichy is a major hub, and we recommend this “Pitstop Strategy”:
- Start Point: Ensure 100% charge from Kaveri Tata (Thiruvanaikoil) if heading North (Chennai), or Kaveri Tata (Piratiyur) if heading South/West.
- Chennai Route: The BPCL Sannanmangalam station on the Chennai-Trichy highway is a reliable fast-charger stop.
- Madurai/Dindigul Route: Look for the Zeon or Tata Power chargers in Manapparai or Vaiyampatty to top up from 20% to 80% while you grab a coffee.
Impact of Maintenance on Range
At our service centers, we often find that “low range” complaints are actually maintenance issues.
