Maximising Your EV Performance In Summer
Electric vehicles (EVs) have become a popular choice for their efficiency and eco-friendliness, but like traditional petrol-powered cars, they are not immune to the effects of extreme weather. While cold temperatures are often discussed in relation to EV range reduction, hot weather can also have a significant impact. Understanding how high temperatures affect your EV’s efficiency can help you optimise performance and extend your driving range during the summer months.
The Effects Of Weather On EV Performance
1. Increased Battery Degradation
EV batteries operate best within an optimal temperature range, typically between 20°C and 25°C. When temperatures rise above this range, battery cells can degrade faster. High heat accelerates the chemical reactions inside the lithium-ion battery, which can lead to long-term capacity loss. Over time, excessive exposure to high temperatures can permanently reduce an EV’s overall range.
2. Air Conditioning Load
One of the biggest drains on an EV’s battery in hot weather is the air conditioning (AC) system. Unlike petrol cars, which use engine power to run the AC, EVs rely solely on their battery. Running the AC at full blast to cool the cabin significantly increases energy consumption, leading to a reduction in driving range. To improve efficiency, consider pre-cooling your car while it is still plugged in, using eco-mode settings, and parking in shaded areas to minimise interior heat buildup.
3. Thermal Management System Activation
Modern EVs are equipped with sophisticated thermal management systems designed to regulate battery temperature. In hot weather, these systems work harder to keep the battery cool, consuming additional energy that would otherwise be used for driving. If your EV has an active liquid cooling system, it will automatically kick in to prevent overheating, which can slightly reduce range. Ensuring proper maintenance of this system is crucial for overall battery longevity and efficiency.
4. Reduced Charging Efficiency
High temperatures can also affect the efficiency of charging. When it’s extremely hot, some EVs may reduce charging speeds to prevent overheating, leading to longer charging times. Additionally, Level 3 DC fast chargers can generate more heat, causing further inefficiencies. If possible, charge your EV during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening, to minimise heat-related charging slowdowns.
5. Tire Pressure Fluctuations
Just like in petrol vehicles, hot weather causes tyre pressure to increase as the air inside expands. Overinflated tires can affect traction and handling, while under-inflated tires lead to increased rolling resistance, which can reduce efficiency and driving range. Regularly checking and adjusting tire pressure according to manufacturer recommendations can help maximise range and safety.
6. Regenerative Braking Performance
Extreme heat can also affect the performance of regenerative braking. If the battery becomes too hot, the system may limit regenerative braking to avoid overheating, reducing the amount of energy recovered during deceleration. This can lead to increased energy consumption and a decrease in overall range.
Final Thoughts
While EVs are designed to handle a variety of weather conditions, hot temperatures can lead to reduced efficiency and range. By managing air conditioning use, keeping up with battery maintenance, charging during cooler periods, and monitoring tyre pressure, you can mitigate the impact of hot weather on your EV performance. Awareness and proactive measures will help you make the most of your electric vehicle, even in the summer heat. If you have any questions or queries relating to the maintenance of your EV, don’t hesitate to contact The Torque Team.
