Electric cars are becoming the new norm with exclusive modern features. However, there are concerns related to EV range in extreme weather conditions. Since the UAE witnesses high temperatures, it is essential to learn how to take care of your electric cars in hot weather. Besides, high temperature affects lithium-ion battery life used in EVs.
While we have seen conventional cars catching fire in hot weather, it is important to learn about adverse temperature effects on electric cars in hot weather. Here is a complete guide on consequences and tips for taking care of your electric car in hot weather.
How Does Hot Weather Affect EV Range and Performance
Electric car batteries perform best when temperatures range between 25 to 35 degrees centigrade. Thanks to technological advancements, EV manufacturers such as Tesla claimed that their EV battery performance doesn’t diminish at extreme temperatures ranging from -80 to 60 degrees centigrade.
However, it is still not a good idea to leave your electric car out in the sun for long hours. For instance, if you keep your mobile phone out in the heat, its battery life will diminish. That said, EVs are also equipped with the bigger version of lithium-ion batteries similar to that of mobile phones.
Following are some of the effects that you may witness in your electric cars in hot weather:
- According to the studies carried out by automobile manufacturers, the range can be reduced by 17% when driving an EV in hot climate conditions.
- High temperatures may affect battery lifespan.
- Thermal runaway, a phenomenon of cell expansion may result in an unanticipated fire.
- The charging rate will significantly decrease due to the high temperature resulting in more charging time.
TIPS FOR EV OWNERS IN RISING TEMPERATURE
The performance may decrease, but it doesn’t stop working. However, you can avoid the above-mentioned effect of hot weather on electric cars. Here we have listed a few tips to boost your EV battery lifespan and achieve optimum performance:
AVOID FAST CHARGING
Using direct current (DC) chargers frequently can deteriorate a battery’s performance. Since the current flow rate is higher in fast charging, the battery heats up due to the current flow. Higher temperature adds to the battery heating effect. That said, it will lead to battery life degradation.
USE PRECONDITIONING FEATURE
Preconditioning is one of the most lucrative features of an electric car. When you are planning to drive your electric car in hot weather, you can turn on the preconditioning feature in the EV before getting into it. The preconditioning feature enables you to adjust the temperature for optimum performance of electric cars in hot or cold weather. That said, the preconditioning maintains the cabin temperature, which helps in avoiding child car heat stroke and other issues caused due to excessive heat.
For instance, when the weather is hot, the EV will adjust its interior temperature before you drive. That said, this feature will adjust the battery temperature preserving the EV battery’s life and performance overall. You can find used Teslas in the UAE which come with preconditioning features to enhance your EV performance.
CHARGE OVERNIGHT OR EARLY MORNING
Since the temperature is lower at night and early morning, charging your electric vehicle overnight or early morning can eliminate the battery heating up. Besides, you can park and charge your car at locations with shades to enhance your EV battery performance.
REDUCE USAGE OF UNNECESSARY APPLICATIONS
You must know that using many applications on your mobile phone heats your phone and drains the battery quickly. Similarly, using many applications heats the EV battery. Therefore, when driving an electric car in hot weather, it is recommended that you avoid using unnecessary applications.
USE ECO-MODE WHEN DRIVING
You must have heard of conventional cars with eco-mode. However, electric cars also have an eco-mode feature to preserve the battery charge for a longer ride. EV batteries will consume more charge in hot weather due to the usage of air-conditioning and other features. Hence, turning on the eco-mode in your EV in hot weather can help you on a long journey.
CHARGE YOUR EV BETWEEN 20% TO 80%
Most manufacturers recommend charging electric cars up to 80% to avoid overcharging. Although there is a battery management system and cooling system to control overheating, it is still preferable to not overcharge your electric cars in hot weather.
High temperatures have multiple effects. Whether you have a hybrid, electric, or petrol car, it is important to take safety measures to achieve optimum performance in your vehicle. Therefore, when you buy an EV, be it a new or used car in the UAE, it is essential to follow the tips to enhance the performance of your electric car in hot weather.
Stay tuned to the UAE’s leading auto blog to learn more tips and techniques to improve your vehicle performance.
Related Posts
