Does anyone else notice a big drop in EV range on their 2024 RAV4 PHEV XSE?

Toyota Truck, SUV and Vans Forum Toyota RAV4
1

I’ve had my 2024 RAV4 PHEV XSE for less than a year, and I’ve noticed the EV-only range went from about 40–42 miles when it was new to around 30 miles now. Is this normal? This is my first plug-in hybrid, so I don’t really know what to expect.

I’ve read that driving style and charging habits can impact the battery, but the range seems to have dropped faster than I thought it would. For example, when I’m below 10 miles of EV range and switch to sport mode, it goes into hybrid mode instead of staying in EV. I also don’t get the same “boost” feeling when I accelerate in power mode.

Here’s how I’ve been using the car:

  • I drive pretty aggressively and use a level 2 charger (48A) for scheduled overnight charging.
  • My weekday commute is 5–10 miles, so I charge every other day.
  • On weekends, I drive about 35–40 miles. I used to manage an entire day on one charge, but now I have to charge midday.

The dealership didn’t find anything wrong. They said I’d need to leave the car for two days for them to run more tests and send the results to Toyota, but they couldn’t guarantee a battery replacement, and I can’t be without my car for two days.

Has anyone else had this happen with a plug-in hybrid? Is it worth pushing for more testing?

2

Could the weather where you are be affecting the range?

3

Bennet said:
Could the weather where you are be affecting the range?

I’m in NYC, but this started in August before it got cold. Winter didn’t really hit until late December this year.

4

The range adapts to your driving habits. If you’re hard on the gas, the car adjusts its estimate. Try driving gently for a couple of weeks and see if it gets better. Also, don’t forget to check your tire pressure.

5

@Harper
Good idea, I’ll try to be more gentle. My tires probably need some air too.

6

Are you using the heater more often? That might explain the lower range.

7

Cleo said:
Are you using the heater more often? That might explain the lower range.

I use it when it’s really cold. I leave it on auto and set it between 65–72 degrees.

8

Miller said:

Cleo said:
Are you using the heater more often? That might explain the lower range.

I use it when it’s really cold. I leave it on auto and set it between 65–72 degrees.

Heating eats up a lot of energy in EVs. And in winter, fuel blends can lower overall efficiency.

9

@Cleo
Heating in EVs isn’t as efficient as in gas cars. Gas engines use waste heat, while EVs have to generate heat using a heat pump.

10

Atlas said:
@Cleo
Heating in EVs isn’t as efficient as in gas cars. Gas engines use waste heat, while EVs have to generate heat using a heat pump.

Got it, thanks for explaining that!

11

Have you checked the vents that cool the battery? If they’re dirty or blocked, it could cause issues. Also, do you use the AC while driving? It helps keep the battery cool.

12

Paxton said:
Have you checked the vents that cool the battery? If they’re dirty or blocked, it could cause issues. Also, do you use the AC while driving? It helps keep the battery cool.

This car has a liquid-cooled battery, so the AC isn’t involved in cooling it.

13

Paxton said:
Have you checked the vents that cool the battery? If they’re dirty or blocked, it could cause issues. Also, do you use the AC while driving? It helps keep the battery cool.

How do I clean the vents? Do I just wipe them? I usually keep the AC on auto and set it between 65–70.

14

@Miller
Just make sure the vents aren’t blocked or dusty. You can use a vacuum if needed.

15

Paxton said:
@Miller
Just make sure the vents aren’t blocked or dusty. You can use a vacuum if needed.

Thanks for the tip, I’ll check them out.