How does hot weather affect electric cars

How does hot weather affect electric cars?

Today I am going to tell you something that many people probably don’t know – and that is how our beloved EV behaves in the summer. I myself drive an EV and the first time I took a long drive in the summer, to be honest, I had some difficulties. But now I am prepared – and I want you to be fully prepared too.

So let’s talk from the heart – about hot weather EV experiences, summer challenges, and smart tips to make every ride smooth.

What is the experience of driving an EV in summer?

When the outside temperature becomes very high – that is 40°C or above – then the battery of our electric car gets affected. Because in hot weather EV the car has to work harder to keep the battery cool. And yes, when we turn on the AC, more energy is released from the battery.

That means the performance of the EV (summer electric car performance) decreases a bit in summer. Like the range (kilometers) decreases a bit, the charging time can increase a bit and if you have parked in the sun, then as soon as you sit inside the car, you feel as if you are sitting in an oven!

Why does this happen? Understand some science in simple words

EV batteries contain lithium ions. These ions move faster in the heat, which can sometimes damage the chemicals inside the battery. Additionally:

  • AC and cooling systems running longer drain the battery faster.

  • If charging is taking place in hot weather, charging may be slower.

  • Too much heat can also gradually reduce the life of the battery.

So what is the solution? My solid tips which I follow myself:

  1. Park wisely:
    If you have to go out somewhere, try to park the car in the shade. It is best if there is a shade in the mall, office or home parking.

  2. Take advantage of the climate control app:
    Most EVs have pre-cooling or climate preset. Meaning, start cooling the car with the app before leaving home. This will reduce the load on the battery.

  3. Keep checking the tyre pressure:
    The air in the tyre can expand in summer, which increases the risk of puncture. Do check it once every week.

  4. Charge the battery up to 100% before a long distance:
    The battery runs out quickly in summer, so go out with a full charge.

  5. Carry water with you and keep yourself cool too:
    The heat can tire out not only the car, but you too. Keep water, sunscreen and sunglasses with you.

  6. Keep the EV battery updated:
    If the car asks for an update, never delay. Sometimes a software update improves battery performance.

How to maintain EV performance in summer?

(Hot Weather EV Summer Electric Car Performance)

Now I am the same girl who used to panic when the range of EV suddenly decreased in summers. But now I know that by following some simple steps we can manage this performance drop to a great extent.

  • Keep pre-cooling on

  • Park in shade during summers

  • Start the trip on full charge

  • Avoid unnecessary load (like too much luggage or extra AC time)

What mistakes should not be made in hot weather?

  • Don’t charge in direct sunlight

  • Don’t let the battery go down to 0%

  • Don’t plan long distance trips without checking

  • Don’t drive with the windows open – this reduces the effectiveness of the AC and drains the battery quickly

My last point – if you want to love EV then understand it

Our electric cars can be a bit fussy in the summer, but if we show a little common sense, the journey can be very smooth and enjoyable. The more information you have about Hot weather EV summer electric car performance, the easier the journey will be.

Remember, an EV is not just a car – it is a responsibility. And whether it is hot or cold, if we take proper care of our EV, it will never let us down.

Also Read: Car Overheating Summer: Why Does My Car Overheat?

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