A common misconception is that electric vehicles (EVs) don’t have the required power to go off-road. However, this isn’t necessarily the case. In fact, even a small sedan like the Hyundai Sonata EV is capable of some light off-roading. If you’re interested in taking your Sonata EV off-road, there are a few things you can do to make your trip more successful.
Taking Your Sonata EV Off-Road
Below are some tips you can use if you want to take your Hyundai Sonata EV off-road:
Adjust Tire Pressure
One of the first things you should do before you head off-road is adjust your tires. Fully-inflated tires can’t grip the off-road trail’s uneven surfaces as easily. You can improve traction by removing some of the air from your tires before you get off the main road. However, don’t remove too much air from your tire, as this can kill all the range you get with your EV battery.
If you plan to go off-roading a lot, storing an air compressor in your vehicle that can be plugged into the Sonata would be a good idea. This way, you can add air to your tires once you’re done going off-road. Proper tire pressure is essential for getting the most range from your EV, so fill them back up as soon as possible.
Adjust Brake Regeneration
Brake regeneration is one of the key innovations that allow EVs to operate. When you release your foot off the throttle, the regenerative brake system starts up and automatically begins to slow down the vehicle. At the same time, it uses some of the energy it’s generating from this process to charge up the battery. This helps to keep your vehicle’s battery charged and extend the driving range.
However, this brake regeneration can cause some problems when driving off-road. Before you set out, you may want to adjust your brake regeneration settings to the lowest possible. This way, you can cruise a little more when you release the throttle without the vehicle automatically slowing down. With less brake regeneration, you may avoid getting stuck on that small crest or hill.
Reduce Your Range Estimates
If you implement the two precautions above, your Sonata will perform better off-road. However, with this improved performance comes a decrease in driving range. Therefore, you should reduce your range estimates when heading out, as you likely won’t be able to drive as far as usual. By adjusting your range estimates, you can better prepare for your outing and ensure that you have enough battery to complete the journey.
Similarly, it’s a good idea to fully charge your battery before your next adventure. This way, you can still do plenty of off-roading even with your reduced range estimates. Finally, look for some charging stations near the trails you want to take, just in case you need them.
Research Roads Ahead of Time
If possible, research the roads you’ll be driving on ahead of time. You should learn how rough these roads are and try to discern if your Sonata EV is up to the task. There’s a big difference between a short gravel or dirt road and driving over sand dunes or a rocky outcrop.
Your Sonata EV may be able to handle some light off-roading, but that doesn’t mean it can go everywhere. Learn what the roads look like in front of you by searching for them online or visiting them in another vehicle before driving your Sonata. If you aren’t sure if your Sonata can handle the terrain, it’s better to play it safe and avoid going there.
Be Careful of Ground Clearance
Unlike some other off-roading vehicles, the Hyundai Sonata EV is relatively low to the ground. This is a concern when you’re off-roading, as uneven terrain could cause damage to the bottom of your vehicle. For example, suppose you were to drive over a big tree root in the ground after passing over it with the front tires. Unfortunately, it could be large enough to scrape the underside of your Sonata. So you’ll want to keep aware of this while driving and ensure nothing in your path is large enough to hit the bottom of your Sonata.
Go Slow and Steady
Finally, it’s best to take it slow and steady whenever you go off-roading. You never know what might be around the next bend, and you’ll want enough time to adjust your driving. Thanks to its electric powertrain, your Sonata has plenty of torque, so getting back up to speed is no issue. Take your time around corners and bends, and don’t go too fast down any hills. This will help protect not only your Sonata but everyone inside as well.
Other Hyundai Off-Road Vehicles
The Hyundai Sonata EV is capable of light off-roading, but you might have bigger adventures in mind. If that’s the case, you may prefer a different Hyundai model that can handle challenging terrain. For example, the Hyundai Santa FE XRT has features such as all-wheel drive, large 18-inch wheels, plenty of ground clearance, and ample cargo space. If you’re set on getting an electric vehicle, explore the 2023 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid, which not only has a hybrid powertrain but all-wheel drive to help you go off-road.
Find Your Perfect Hyundai at Koons Woodbridge Hyundai
Whether you’re interested in the Hyundai Sonata EV or another Hyundai off-roading vehicle, let Koons Woodbridge Hyundai assist you. We can help you find the perfect Hyundai for your needs at an affordable price. You can easily browse our current vehicles online or check out our latest specials for ways to save on your next new vehicle. To save yourself time at the dealership, be sure to make use of our online finance application or trade-in evaluation tool.
If you have any questions or want to schedule a visit to our dealership, please contact us at any time. We look forward to assisting you and helping you find your next off-road vehicle from Hyundai.
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