Asking the Honest Question: Does Weight Matter in an EV?
One Reddit user sparked a surprisingly wholesome and informative conversation by asking a sincere question: as someone who weighs 300 lbs, will my weight noticeably affect an electric vehicle’s range? The responses, spanning personal experience, physics, and a few good jokes, painted a clear picture.
The Physics: Yes, But Barely
From a purely scientific standpoint, extra weight does increase energy usage. But in real-world EVs—most of which weigh between 4,000 to 5,000 pounds—a 100–150 lb difference makes up just 2–3% of total mass. On flat roads, this has almost no impact. At highway speeds, aerodynamic drag matters far more than added weight.
Plus, EVs benefit from regenerative braking, meaning some of the energy used to move that weight is recovered during deceleration.
Real Drivers Say: Not an Issue
Across dozens of comments from EV owners—many identifying as larger individuals—the consensus was simple: your weight won’t meaningfully affect range. Most compared it to having an extra passenger or two in the car. One driver even noted losing over 100 lbs didn’t improve their car’s efficiency at all.
Even in cases where small efficiency losses occur, they’re usually dwarfed by bigger factors like cold weather, tire pressure, and driving habits.
What Actually Matters More Than Your Weight
- Speed and acceleration
- HVAC use (especially heat in winter)
- Tire condition and inflation
- Terrain and elevation changes
- Wind and weather conditions
Many commenters encouraged the original poster to focus on comfort and driving style, not weight. One summed it up perfectly: “Your body mass affects range about as much as your Spotify playlist.”
Bottom Line: EVs Are Built for Everyone
Modern EVs are designed to carry families, cargo, and yes—real people of all shapes and sizes. So if you’re shopping for one, don’t let concerns about your weight hold you back. Your choice matters more than your scale.
