Summary
– Extreme weather can impact EV charging, with both winter and summer presenting challenges
– Heat waves can cause EV batteries to overheat and become inefficient
– Preconditioning can help regulate battery temperature for optimal charging
– Charging at 80% can help avoid overheating and save energy
– Simple tricks like using a wet towel on the charging handle or charging in the shade can help keep EV batteries cool during the summer
Article
With the summer heat in full swing, it’s important for EV owners to take extra precautions to ensure that their vehicles remain in top condition. Extreme weather conditions, whether it be scorching hot temperatures or freezing cold temperatures, can have detrimental effects on EVs. While EVs are equipped to handle these challenges, it’s essential to have a care routine to minimize the impact of the weather. Just like internal combustion engines require coolant and radiators to prevent overheating, EVs have temperature regulation systems in place to protect their sensitive lithium-ion battery packs. Excessive heat can accelerate chemical reactions within the battery, which can lead to a range of issues from damaged cells to potential fires.
One important aspect to consider is battery preconditioning, where the battery is brought to optimal charging temperatures before reaching a charging station. This can be triggered by setting navigation to a nearby charging station, allowing the battery to be ready for charging upon arrival. It’s recommended to allow the vehicle to precondition while plugged in to avoid using energy from the battery pack. Additionally, it’s advised to skip frequent DC fast charging sessions in the summer, as fast charging in high heat can lead to slower charging speeds due to thermal throttling. Limiting the state of charge to 80% can help the battery stay cool and avoid degradation, as well as alleviate constraints on the grid by charging during off-peak hours.
Another simple trick that has been effective for Tesla owners is using a wet towel on the charging handle to improve charging speeds. Older V2 Tesla Superchargers lack actively cooled cables, so placing a wet towel on the handle can help lower the temperature and increase the charging rate. It’s important to exercise caution with this method to ensure safety for both the vehicle and charger. Charging in the shade can also help keep the battery and cabin cooler, reducing the need for excessive air conditioning. Additionally, easing up on the throttle while driving in high heat can help conserve range and keep the battery cooler.
Overall, taking these precautions during the summer months can help maintain the health and efficiency of EVs in extreme weather conditions. By following simple charging tips and being mindful of the impact of the heat on the battery, EV owners can ensure that their vehicles remain in optimal condition. As technology continues to advance, EVs are becoming better equipped to handle extreme weather conditions, but it’s still important for owners to take proactive measures to protect their investment. Whether it’s using battery preconditioning, limiting charging to 80%, or finding shaded charging spots, there are several steps that EV owners can take to ensure a smooth charging experience during the summer heat.
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