The biggest challenge of owning an electric car is adapting to its more limited range. Most electric vehicles (EVs) tend to cover a shorter distance on a full charge compared to gas-powered cars with a full tank. Since some EVs also charge pretty slowly, range often becomes a constant worry.
Several factors can reduce this range even more. Extremely cold temperatures are known to reduce battery performance, but very hot temperatures can have a similar effect. This has become increasingly relevant with the heat waves in 2023 affecting more EV drivers.
So, why does hot weather affect an EV’s range? The batteries in electric cars depend on chemical reactions that are sensitive to temperature. When it’s very hot, these reactions slow down, causing the battery to use more energy to operate, which means the vehicle requires more frequent charging. Additionally, you’ll probably use the air conditioner more, which further drains the battery.
Unfortunately, there isn’t a simple “hot weather” switch to improve EV range. Maximizing your EV’s range in the heat involves making deliberate choices that might feel inconvenient and these decisions start before you even hit the road.
One way to optimize your EV’s range is to pre-condition the car’s interior temperature while it’s still plugged in. About 10 to 15 minutes before you leave, turn on the air conditioner to cool the cabin. This uses the grid power to cool the car rather than the battery, helping you start your trip with a comfortable interior and a full charge.
If your car is significantly low on battery, this tactic will slow the charging process but still helps by reducing the need to blast the A/C when you start driving.
Once on the road, try to moderate your air conditioner use. The goal isn’t to make the interior frigid, especially on shorter trips, but just comfortable enough.
Maximizing range involves not just managing interior temperature, but also where you park. Try to park in shady spots to keep the car cooler when it’s idle. If shade isn’t available, use reflective window covers or sunshades to block out sunlight.
Aside from managing heat, there are other strategies to boost your EV’s range. Use the vehicle’s “eco mode” if available, and enable regenerative braking. Check that you have the right tires for your EV and ensure they are properly inflated. The right tires can make a difference in extending your vehicle’s range.
Lastly, consider driving less or scheduling your trips during cooler parts of the day, like morning or evening. Combine multiple errands into one trip to minimize driving and avoid unnecessary special trips.
By carefully planning your routes and combining errands, you can manage your battery power effectively even on hot days.