Maximizing EV Range: 6 Essential Tips for Heatwaves
As the world experiences more frequent and intense heatwaves, electric vehicle (EV) owners may face a significant challenge: maintaining their car’s range. Extreme temperatures can affect the efficiency of electric vehicles, as heat has a direct impact on both the battery and overall vehicle performance. Fortunately, there are several strategies you can implement to extend your EV’s range during heatwaves, ensuring you get the most out of every charge.
1. Precondition Your Vehicle Before Driving
One of the most effective ways to extend your EV"s range in hot weather is by preconditioning the cabin while the vehicle is still plugged in. Preconditioning means using the electric power from the grid to cool down the interior of your car before you start driving. By doing this, you reduce the strain on the battery that would otherwise be needed to power the air conditioning system. Most modern EVs have built-in preconditioning features accessible through smartphone apps, allowing you to cool the car down before you even get in.
2. Use Air Conditioning Efficiently
Air conditioning is one of the biggest energy drains on an EV’s battery, especially during a heatwave. To reduce its impact on your range, try to use the AC in moderation. Keep the temperature settings to a reasonable level—around 72°F (22°C)—to balance comfort and efficiency. Additionally, try using the vehicle’s “eco mode” or “energy-saving” settings, which are designed to minimize the power used by the AC and other non-essential systems.
Another effective way to reduce the need for air conditioning is to park in shaded areas or use sunshades on your windows to block out direct sunlight. This prevents the cabin from getting too hot while you’re parked, so your AC doesn’t need to work as hard when you start driving.
3. Limit Heavy Acceleration and High Speeds
Extreme heat can make the battery work harder, reducing its efficiency. To maximize your EV"s range, avoid aggressive driving behaviors like rapid acceleration or high-speed driving. These actions consume more energy and drain the battery faster. Instead, drive at moderate speeds and adopt smooth acceleration and braking techniques. Many EVs also have regenerative braking systems that recapture energy during braking, which can be more efficient in hot conditions.
4. Monitor Tire Pressure
High temperatures can cause tire pressure to fluctuate, potentially reducing efficiency. Overinflated or underinflated tires can increase rolling resistance, causing the vehicle to use more energy. Regularly check your tire pressure to ensure it aligns with the manufacturer"s recommended specifications. Most EVs come equipped with tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS), making it easier to keep track of tire health and optimize your range.
5. Use Range Mode or Eco Mode
Many electric cars come with an “Eco” or “Range Mode,” which optimizes the vehicle’s energy usage for maximum efficiency. These modes adjust various systems in the car, including the climate control, acceleration, and energy distribution, to conserve battery life. When driving in extreme heat, switching to Range Mode can help extend your car"s range, as it minimizes energy consumption by limiting unnecessary functions.
6. Keep Your EV’s Battery at an Optimal Temperature
Battery performance is heavily affected by temperature. High heat can cause the battery to overheat, which may lead to reduced efficiency and faster depletion of the charge. To prevent this, some EVs are equipped with battery cooling systems that help maintain an optimal operating temperature. If your vehicle lacks an active cooling system, park in cooler, shaded areas and avoid leaving your car exposed to the sun for long periods.