Electric vehicle owners have been warned to look after their cars this winter as the colder months are likely to significantly reduce battery life and range.
According to LeaseElectricCar.co.uk, there are five things drivers should do to look after their electric cars over the winter months to help optimise battery life, improve range, and save time.
Keep battery warm
In the winter an EV’s battery will naturally get much colder and drop below the optimum temperature at which to run. Keeping the battery as warm as possible will help preserve its life and will mean less time spent warming up the car.
If possible it is a good idea for electric car owners to keep their vehicle in a garage or under a car cover to keep as much heat as possible, especially overnight when temperatures are often at their lowest.
Charging will take longer
Keep in mind that EV batteries will take longer to charge on a cold wintry day compared to the summer months.
EV s will take longer to charge when the temperature drops below the optimum temperature for batteries at 15 degrees. Prepare for a longer charge time and consider charging overnight, as not only is it cheaper, there is more time for the battery to reach its maximum charge.
Keep heating on low
Although it can be tempting to have the internal temperature of a car on high, especially when making a long journey over winter, this can actually damage the battery.
Having the car heating on over winter will degrade the battery and its range, potentially meaning a charge is needed on the way. Try having the heating on at a reduced temperature, or just use heated seats and steering wheel rather than the whole car.
Preheat the battery
Most EVs give drivers the option to preheat their vehicles. Doing this in winter is a good idea as the EV will prioritise heating up the battery ready for use, reaching the operating temperature ready for setting off.
Using the EV straight after charging in the winter will also ensure the battery is preheated.
Change driving style
Driving as smooth as possible in an EV over wintertime will help to optimise the battery life.
It is a good idea to avoid any heavy braking and accelerating which will then help to optimise the energy consumption of the EV.
Driving cautiously will also help motorists to drive safely over winter with the likelihood of ice and snow on the roads.
An alternative is to turn on the eco driving setting which automatically reduces the heat, as well as the accelerator pedal impact.
