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Does the range of your electric car suddenly decrease in winter? EV battery capacity and heater usage can impact driving range in cold weather. But by adopting some easy habits, you can reduce this loss to a great extent. What settings should be turned on before leaving the house, how to use the heater and what is the connection between tire pressure and range? Know 5 important tips.
Know how the range of electric cars can be increased in winter.
The problem of decreasing range of electric vehicles (EV) is common in winter. In cold weather, the chemical reactions of lithium-ion batteries slow down, making energy production and delivery less effective. Apart from this, the heater draws electricity from the battery to keep the cabin warm, whereas in petrol-diesel cars the excess heat from the engine is used.
Low tire pressure, reduced effectiveness of regenerative braking and increased cold air drag also affect range. According to many studies, the range can drop by 20 to 40 percent in cold. With right habits this loss can be reduced to a great extent. Let us know how the range of EV can be improved in winter.
Use pre-conditioning correctly
Before leaving home, warm up the car while it is connected to the charger. Bring both battery and cabin to idle temperature using the mobile app or schedule feature. This does not waste battery energy, but uses household electricity. As a result, the range remains better and the performance becomes smooth as soon as the drive starts.
Heated seat and steering support
Instead of heating the entire cabin with a loud heater, use heated seats and steering wheel. These keep the body warm directly and consume very little electricity. One feels comfortable even by keeping the cabin temperature slightly low, which controls battery consumption and saves range.
Check tire pressure regularly
Tire pressure drops by 3-5 psi due to shrinkage of air in cold. Low pressure increases rolling resistance and the motor has to use more energy. Regularly check the pressure and maintain it as per manufacturer’s instructions. Correct pressure improves both traction and range.
Adopt eco mode and smooth driving
Turn on Eco or Winter mode, which controls power and energy consumption. Avoid sudden acceleration and sharp braking. Maintain a steady speed. This increases the efficiency of the battery and the range remains better even in cold.
Take care of parking and charging
If possible, park the car in a garage or in the shade, so that the battery does not get too cold. Keep it connected to the charger overnight. Do not let the battery fall to very low levels. These habits keep the battery healthy and reduce range loss in winter.
About the Author
Ram Mohan Mishra is an active journalist in the automotive world of digital media and has been working continuously in the field of auto journalism since 2021. Presently he is handling the auto desk of News18 Hindi as Senior Sub-Editor.
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