Summary
- Sign up for daily news updates from CleanTechnica on email or follow on Google News
- Ford provides winter driving tips for EV owners
- Tips include parking in a garage, removing snow before driving, plugging in when parked, setting daily Departure Times, reducing energy consumption, and ensuring proper tire pressure
- EVs are not that different from traditional fossil-fueled vehicles in terms of maintenance in extreme cold
- Ford also offers fun facts about tire pressure figures and the benefits of the Vapor Injection Heat Pump (VIHP) in their electric vehicles
Article
As we approach the winter season, Ford, a company based in cold and snowy Michigan, offers tips for driving an electric vehicle in extreme cold and snow. Some of these tips include parking the EV in a garage to keep it warm, removing snow from the vehicle before driving for safety reasons, and plugging in the EV when parked for extended periods to optimize battery performance. Ford also recommends setting daily Departure Times to precondition the vehicle’s battery and cabin while plugged in, reducing energy consumption used by the vehicle HVAC, and ensuring tires are at the proper pressure to maximize EV range.
Ford also shared some interesting facts about their vehicles, such as the use of a patented Vapor Injection Heat Pump (VIHP) designed to improve heat transfer capability and reduce power consumption, especially in colder weather. This feature is available in the 2024 electric F-150 Lightning pickup and upcoming 2025 electric Mustang Mach-E SUV. Additionally, if heading towards a DC fast charging station, the battery will automatically start to warm up within 20 miles of the destination, aiding in more efficient charging.
While some of the winter driving tips may seem like common sense, they serve as a reminder that electric vehicles are not that different from traditional vehicles when it comes to cold weather conditions. It is important to practice smart driving and charging habits to ensure the optimal performance of the EV during extreme cold and snow. By following these tips, EV owners can protect their vehicles and maximize their driving range, ultimately enhancing their overall driving experience in winter conditions.
In addition to the practical tips provided by Ford, they also emphasize the benefits of utilizing existing features in EVs, such as pre-conditioning the vehicle’s battery and cabin while plugged in, and using heated seats and steering wheel to conserve energy. Furthermore, Ford’s commitment to innovation is evident through the incorporation of advanced technologies like the VIHP, which enhances energy efficiency in their electric vehicles, ensuring a more comfortable and efficient driving experience for users in challenging winter conditions.
Overall, Ford’s winter driving tips serve as a useful guide for EV owners looking to navigate cold and snowy weather effectively. By implementing these recommendations and taking advantage of the features available in their electric vehicles, drivers can enjoy a safe and enjoyable driving experience even in extreme winter conditions. With a focus on optimizing battery performance, reducing energy consumption, and maintaining proper vehicle maintenance, EV owners can confidently tackle winter driving challenges and make the most out of their electric vehicle during the colder months.
Read the full article here
