When summer temperatures soar, it’s essential to pay special attention to the health of your electric car’s battery. High temperatures can have a significant impact on the performance and range of your electric vehicle. Here’s a roundup of best practices for keeping your battery healthy in these extreme conditions.
The effects of heat on your battery :
It’s well known that lithium-ion batteries, commonly used in electric cars, start to deteriorate at temperatures of 50°C and above. Once the 70°C mark is crossed, the integrity of the battery is seriously threatened. This temperature limit can vary according to the battery’s activity and environmental conditions. It is therefore essential to check with the manufacturer for the specific threshold temperature for your model.
It’s well known that lithium-ion batteries, commonly used in electric cars, start to deteriorate at temperatures of 50°C and above. Once the 70°C mark is crossed, the integrity of the battery is seriously threatened. This temperature limit can vary according to the battery’s activity and environmental conditions. It is therefore essential to check with the manufacturer for the specific threshold temperature for your model.
Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can also lead to a long-term loss of range for your electric car. Depending on the cooling system, the reduction in range can vary. Vehicles with liquid cooling can lose an average of 10% range over 5 years, while those with fan cooling can lose between 20% and 30% over the same period.
Tips to protect your battery and your autonomy :
Avoid parking in direct sunlight. Look for a shady spot to maintain a lower temperature inside the vehicle, reducing the need for air conditioning and protecting the battery from overheating.
Keep your battery charge between 20% and 80%. Avoid keeping it constantly at 100%, which can damage the cells, especially in hot weather.
Using the air conditioning at full power can considerably reduce your vehicle’s range. Turn it on in advance when your vehicle is plugged in to save energy.
Do not over-inflate your tires, as this can increase the risk of bursting, especially in hot weather. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on tire pressure.
Note that fast charging may take longer in hot weather. If possible, use cooler hours, such as mornings or evenings, to recharge your vehicle.
Keep these tips in mind to keep your electric car running smoothly during heatwaves. Preventing and managing high temperatures is essential to extend the life of your battery and maximize your range. Finally, if you need to recharge your vehicle during the day, look for a covered charging station or underground parking lot to avoid excessive temperatures.
