How Hot Weather Affects EV Performance
Hot weather EV performance is a critical topic for electric vehicle owners, especially during Australia’s sweltering summer months. While EVs are known for their efficiency and eco-friendliness, high temperatures can pose unique challenges for battery health, charging efficiency, and driving range. Understanding how heat impacts your EV can help you take proactive steps to maintain optimal performance throughout summer.
The Effects of Weather on EV Performance
Increased Battery Degradation
EV batteries perform best between 20°C and 25°C. Prolonged exposure to temperatures above this range speeds up chemical reactions inside the battery, potentially accelerating long-term degradation and reducing overall capacity and range.
Air Conditioning Load
EV air conditioning systems are powered by the battery, unlike combustion vehicles. Running the AC heavily in hot conditions can significantly drain your battery. Pre-cooling your car while it’s charging and using eco-mode or shaded parking can help reduce the energy impact.
Thermal Management System Activation
EVs feature thermal management systems to protect the battery from overheating. These systems use energy to maintain ideal battery temperatures, slightly reducing driving range. Proper maintenance of your vehicle’s cooling system is key to ensuring its effectiveness.
Reduced Charging Efficiency
In extreme heat, charging can slow down. EVs may limit charging speed to avoid overheating, and fast chargers can generate additional heat. For best results, charge your vehicle during cooler parts of the day, such as early mornings or evenings.
Tyre Pressure Fluctuations
High temperatures can cause tyre pressure to rise. Over-inflated tyres affect handling, while under-inflated tyres increase rolling resistance, impacting energy efficiency. Check tyre pressure regularly and adjust as needed for safety and range optimisation.
Regenerative Braking Performance
When the battery is too hot, regenerative braking may be limited to prevent additional heat build-up. This reduces the amount of energy recovered during deceleration and can lower your overall range during hot weather driving.
Final Thoughts
Managing hot weather EV performance requires a proactive approach. Small habits—like charging at cooler times, monitoring tyre pressure, and managing AC use—can make a big difference in preserving battery health and maximising range. By taking care of your EV and understanding how heat affects its systems, you can enjoy efficient, reliable driving all summer long. For maintenance support or further advice, contact The Torque Team—your EV experts.
