As summer temperatures soar, electric vehicle (EV) owners face the challenge of maintaining optimal performance and maximizing range. High temperatures can affect your EV’s battery efficiency and overall performance, making it crucial to adopt practices that mitigate the impact of the heat. Here are some essential tips to ensure your EV battery stays in top shape during the hottest months, helping you get the most out of every charge.
Your EV's battery is always at work, even when the car is off, especially in high temperatures. Keeping your EV plugged in prevents overnight battery drain and ensures it’s ready to go in the morning. This is a major advantage of having a home charger.
Smooth driving is key to preserving your EV’s battery life. Avoid excessive acceleration and sudden stops, which can cause unnecessary wear and tear. Drive mindfully to ensure a smoother and more efficient ride.
Take advantage of regenerative braking to save energy. When possible, let your car slow down on its own, especially when driving downhill. This process transfers energy from the brakes back to the battery, extending your range.
Finding a shady parking spot is crucial for protecting your EV from the sun. Parking under a tree or in the shade of a building helps prevent battery drainage and keeps the interior cooler. A windshield cover is an affordable way to protect your battery and interior materials from the sun’s heat.
To keep your lithium battery healthy, avoid overcharging regularly. Aim to keep your battery level between 60% and 90%. This practice, similar to managing mobile phone or laptop batteries, helps prolong battery life and efficiency.
To save battery power, pre-cool your car before starting your trip instead of relying heavily on the air conditioner during your drive. Consider investing in affordable standalone cooling accessories to keep comfortable without draining your battery.
The heavier your car, the more drag it experiences, reducing your range. Keep your vehicle free of unnecessary clutter, especially large, heavy items, to maximize efficiency.
While the advanced features in new EVs can be fun and useful, they can also drain your battery and distract you from the road. Limit the use of touchscreens and other gadgets to preserve battery life and ensure safer driving.
By following these tips, you can significantly improve your EV’s performance and range during the summer. While battery overheating is rare, taking preventive measures is always a good practice. Enjoy your summer drives with confidence and efficiency!