IS CRUISE CONTROL EFFICIENT FOR AN ELECTRIC CAR?

EV Channels Review

This video investigates the efficiency of cruise control in an electric vehicle, specifically a 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV. The experiment involved a 90-mile highway trip with cruise control engaged, followed by the return journey without it, maintaining consistent speed (65-70 mph), interior climate (70°F), and windows up. Initial results with cruise control showed lower efficiency, averaging 3.1 miles per kilowatt, which the reviewer attributed possibly to headwinds. Upon returning without cruise control, the efficiency improved significantly to an average of 3.6-3.7 miles per kilowatt. The reviewer noted that driving without cruise control allowed for more regenerative braking by 'feathering the accelerator,' contributing to better energy recovery. While external factors like a 14-degree warmer temperature on the return trip likely played a role, the experiment suggests that manual control, allowing for more proactive regenerative braking, may be more efficient for the Bolt EV on the highway than standard cruise control. The reviewer encourages other EV drivers to conduct similar tests.