The MG Comet EV has taken the market by storm as a compact, funky, and practical solution for city commuting. While it offers a respectable range for daily urban usage, every electric vehicle (EV) owner wishes to squeeze a few extra kilometers out of a single charge.

Range anxiety is real, but with the MG Comet, it doesn't have to be. By tweaking your driving habits and understanding the car’s features, you can significantly maximize your battery life.

Here is a detailed guide on how to increase the range of your MG Comet EV using smart driving techniques.

1. Master the Driving Modes

The MG Comet comes equipped with three distinct driving modes: Eco, Normal, and Sport.

• Use Eco Mode: For daily city driving, stick to Eco Mode. This mode limits the top speed slightly and softens the throttle response. It ensures that the motor draws the minimum amount of energy required to move the car, significantly extending your range.
• Avoid Sport Mode: While Sport mode is fun and makes the car feel peppy, it drains the battery much faster because it allows for rapid acceleration. Save this mode for when you really need to overtake on a highway.

2. Utilize KERS (Regenerative Braking)

One of the best features of the MG Comet EV is the Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS). This system converts the energy usually lost during braking back into electricity to charge the battery. The Comet offers three levels of regeneration: Light, Normal, and Heavy.

• Set to 'Heavy' in Traffic: When driving in stop-and-go city traffic, set the KERS to Heavy. Every time you lift your foot off the accelerator, the car will slow down significantly, feeding energy back into the battery. This allows for "one-pedal driving" and boosts range.
• Set to 'Light' on Highways: If you are on an open road, set it to Light so the car can coast (roll freely) without slowing down too quickly.

3. Smooth Acceleration is Key

Electric cars deliver instant torque (power), which can be tempting to use at every traffic light. However, "flooring it" is the enemy of range.

• Accelerate Gently: Press the pedal gradually. Imagine there is an egg under your foot that you don't want to break.
• Anticipate Traffic: Look ahead. If you see a red light in the distance, take your foot off the accelerator immediately and let the car coast and regenerate energy, rather than speeding up and braking hard at the last second.

4. Manage the Air Conditioning (AC)

In an EV, the AC draws power directly from the main battery. In the MG Comet, which has a smaller battery pack, heavy AC usage can impact range by 10-15%.

• Moderate Temperature: Set the climate control to a comfortable temperature (e.g., 24°C or 25°C) rather than the coldest setting.
• Use the Fan: On days that aren't too hot, try using just the fan mode or opening the windows slightly (at low city speeds) to save battery.

5. Check Your Tire Pressure

Never underestimate the importance of tires. Under-inflated tires increase "rolling resistance," meaning the motor has to work harder to push the car forward.

• Maintain Recommended PSI: Check the sticker on the driver's side door frame for the recommended tire pressure. Keep your tires inflated to this exact level. Check them once every two weeks.

6. Shed the Extra Weight

The MG Comet is a lightweight car. Adding unnecessary weight forces the motor to use more energy.

• Clean the Car: If you are carrying heavy gym bags, toolkits, or boxes in the back that you don't need for that specific trip, take them out. A lighter car is a more efficient car.

7. Plan Your Route

The shortest route isn't always the most efficient one.

• Avoid Steep Hills: Climbing hills drains the battery very quickly. If there is a flatter route that is only slightly longer, take the flat route.
• Avoid High-Speed Roads: EVs are less efficient at high speeds (above 80 km/h) because of wind resistance. Stick to city routes where speeds are moderate (40-60 km/h) to get the best mileage.

Conclusion

Getting the best range out of your MG Comet EV isn't about driving slowly; it is about driving smartly. By using Eco mode, maximizing regenerative braking, and maintaining a steady foot, you can easily achieve—and sometimes even exceed—the claimed range figures.