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Tips for optimising an electric car in winter
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In recent years, electric vehicles (EVs) have gained popularity among drivers. However, many questions arise for those who drive an electric car in winter: "Does the cold impact range?", "How can I optimise the battery in winter?", "Is it safe to take an electric car into the snow?".
If you are one of these drivers, don't worry. Guerin will help you understand everything about electric vehicles and provide tips so you can maximize every journey with us.
Electric cars in winter and the impact of the cold on their autonomy
One of the main concerns about driving an electric car in winter is the reduction in range caused by low temperatures. Cold weather affects the capacity of lithium-ion batteries, leading to decreased efficiency. Depending on how cold it gets, the drop in range can be as much as 30 per cent.
The reason is straightforward: electric vehicle batteries perform optimally at moderate temperatures. Cold conditions hinder energy transfer within the battery, leading to increased energy consumption to maintain the same performance level.
Additionally, every time we turn on the car's heating, we consume energy from the battery, which can further impact its range. However, there are ways to optimize the car's energy consumption . By the way do you know how much does it cost to charge an electric car.
How to optimise the battery of an electric car in winter
To ensure that your electric car continues to perform efficiently in winter, it's important to follow a few practical tips to optimise the battery:
- Preheat the car while it's charging: before setting off, take advantage of the car being connected to the charging station to warm it up.
- Use the ‘Eco’ driving mode: this allows you to reduce engine power and limits energy use in systems such as heating, ensuring that the battery lasts longer in cold temperatures.
- Charge the car indoors: whenever possible, charge the electric car in places protected from the cold, such as garages. This helps keep the battery at a more favourable temperature, improving charging efficiency.
- Maintain adequate charge levels: an electric car in winter should keep the battery at moderate charge levels. Don't let the battery get too low, as this can further reduce efficiency during cold temperatures.
Is it safe to drive an electric car in the snow?
A common question about electric cars in winter is whether they can be driven safely in the snow. The answer is yes! EVs, like combustion cars, are designed to work in different weather conditions, including snow. However, it's important to follow a few recommendations:
- Use winter tyres: to drive safely in the snow, it is essential to equip the vehicle with winter tyres or tyres suitable for all seasons. These tyres offer greater traction on slippery roads, reducing the risk of accidents.
- Regenerative braking: many electric cars have a regenerative braking system, which helps convert deceleration energy, recharging the battery. However, on slippery surfaces such as ice or snow, it may be necessary to adjust the intensity of this braking to avoid losing control.
- Drive smoothly and steadily: accelerating and braking sharply not only consumes more energy but can also be dangerous on icy roads. Smooth, steady driving helps maintain safety and optimises battery consumption.
How does cold weather affect charging times?
As well as affecting range, cold weather can also increase the charging time of an electric car in winter. At very low temperatures, the charging process can take longer as the battery needs to be warmed up before it can accept a full charge.
A useful tip is to charge the vehicle straight after driving, while the battery is still relatively warm. If possible, use fast chargers, which can help compensate for the extra charging time due to low temperatures. The ideal temperature for recharging is between 10°C and 30°C. However, there are other tips you can use. Fast charging stations in Portugal, get to know them.
Intelligent Use of Heating
In winter, it's tempting to keep the car's heating system on full blast. However, excessive use of heating can quickly drain the battery. Instead, use the heating sparingly.
Another efficient solution is to use the heated seats and steering wheel feature. A feature that consumes less energy and helps keep occupants comfortable, without significantly reducing the vehicle's range.
Regular maintenance is essential
Maintaining an electric car in winter is more important than ever. Cold weather can increase wear and tear on components such as tyres and the braking system, as well as affect the battery coolant. Ensuring that the vehicle is in optimal condition during the colder months can prevent problems and extend battery life.
At Guerin, all cars undergo rigorous maintenance inspections before being rented out, guaranteeing drivers a safe and smooth experience, whatever the weather conditions.
Travelling by electric car in winter is safe with Guerin
Driving an electric car in winter presents some challenges, but by heeding these tips you can make the most of it, even in the harshest conditions. Learn how to charge electric cars while travelling.
Guerin is committed to offering a fleet of reliable and efficient rented cars at any time of year, ensuring that its customers always have a safe and comfortable driving experience, even on the coldest days.
And to give you even more peace of mind on your winter trips and outings, know that you can count on Guerin's Premium Road Assistance, which will help you in the event of a mishap on your journey.
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