While electric vehicle drivers don’t have to worry about their engines overheating in summer the way internal combustion engine car owners do, heat still can affect an EV’s performance. Hot weather means cooling the car, which can sap battery power, reducing the car’s range.
These pretrip preparation tips from NAPA Auto Parts, can help keep your summer road trips worry-free.
- Air the car out. Opening all the doors, including the frunk, allows super-heated air to escape and makes the air conditioning’s job easier.
- Precool your car before you leave. Many EVs allow you to use the climate control system while parked and charging. This will bring your car down to a comfortable temperature and reduce the battery time needed to do the job.
- Try to plan your trips for the coolest times of the day. Driving in the morning and evening will reduce the strain on your cabin’s climate control system. For the same reason, try to avoid peak traffic hours. Sitting on a congested road surrounded by broiling cars increases your vehicle’s temperature. Traveling at less busy times could also make it easier to find a charger.
- Head for shade! Whenever possible, park under a tree or in another shady spot such as a parking deck. If you are parked outside, consider adding a windshield shade to keep the sun off the dashboard.
- Inspect the car for unnecessary cargo. Do you need lawn chairs, a cooler or bicycle on this trip? If not, then take them out of the car. Extra weight puts extra strain on the engine and battery.
- Avoid speeding and weaving in traffic. Do your best to maintain a constant, steady speed, which also limits the strain on the engine. Take advantage of your car’s regenerative braking rather than waiting until the last minute to slam on the brake. If your EV is equipped with an eco-mode setting, then employ it to help keep the car at a consistent speed.
- Perform routine maintenance. This includes ensuring all four tires are fully inflated, because underinflated tires are harder to roll.
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AAA’s Recommendation: Whether you own an electric vehicle or a gas-powered car is up to you – and you should consider lots of factors in making that choice. No matter what type of vehicle you’re choosing, we recommend visiting a dealership, test driving one, and asking as many questions as possible to make an informed decision.
