As summer approaches, it is important for electric vehicle (EV) owners to review the best-practices for keeping EVs performing well in changing weather conditions. There are several things that EV owners should do to maintain their vehicle's ability to operate efficiently, safely, and reliably in hot weather conditions. By following these six tips, you can ensure your electric vehicle last for many years to come without experiencing major performance issues or needing expensive repairs.

Tip 1: Park in the shade

While it may seem obvious, many people skip parking in the shade if it means a slightly longer walk to the supermarket entrance or puts their car out of direct line of sight from their office window. However, while parking in the shade on a hot day is good for all vehicle, this extra cover is particularly important for EVs. Parking in the shade or using a cover can help reduce the temperature inside the car and protect the battery from overheating. According to a study by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, parking an electric car in direct sunlight can cause the battery temperature to increase by up to 12°F, while parking in the shade can keep the battery temperature at or below the ambient temperature.

Tip 2: Keep your EV battery charged to 80%

High temperatures can cause the battery to degrade faster, reducing its overall lifespan. By keeping the battery fully charged, you can help prevent unnecessary wear and tear and ensure that your vehicle has the power it needs to perform well in hot weather. According to Tesla, keeping the battery charged between 20% and 80% can help prolong its lifespan, while letting it sit at a high state of charge for extended periods can cause it to degrade faster.

Tip 3: Use Your AC Sparingly

While it may be tempting to blast your air conditioning on full power during hot weather, doing so can have a negative impact on your EV's range. According to the Union of Concerned Scientists, running the AC on high can reduce the range of an electric vehicle by up to 25%. Instead, try to use your AC conservatively and turn it off when you don't need it. You can also try pre-cooling your car before you get in, which can help reduce the amount of time you need to run the AC.

Tip 4: Monitor Your EV’s Tire Pressure

Electric vehicles require less maintenance than gas cars, so it is easy to forget that they still need some attention. Hot weather can cause your tires to expand, which can lead to overinflation and reduce your EV's range. To prevent this, make sure to monitor your tire pressure regularly and adjust it as needed. You can find the recommended tire pressure for your EV in the owner's manual or on the sticker inside the driver's side door. While not a huge savings, keeping your tires inflated improves overall efficiency by about 3%, according to a study by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, and why not? Every bit counts.

Tip 5: Avoid Rapid Charging in Extreme Heat

While rapid charging can be convenient, it can also cause your battery to overheat in extreme heat. According to a study by the Idaho National Laboratory, charging an electric vehicle at high temperatures can cause the battery to degrade faster and lose capacity more quickly than charging at lower temperatures. If possible, try to avoid rapid charging your EV during the hottest part of the day or in extreme heat conditions. Instead, plan your charging sessions for cooler times of day or use a slower charging method.

Tip 6: Maintain Your Electric Vehicle’s Cooling System

EV cooling systems are designed to keep the battery at a moderate temperature and prevent overheating. Regular maintenance is the key to ensuring your vehicle’s cooling system is working properly. Advice on how often to have your cooling system checked vary widely, but the general range is every 30,000-80,000 miles or every five years. This inspection should include checking the coolant levels, inspecting the cooling fans, and replacing any worn or damaged parts.

Summary

The summer sun is lovely, but definitely can take its toll on electric vehicles. So, the best rule of thumb is to treat your EV as well as you treat your skin. Try to keep it protected from those hot rays best you can all summer long. By taking the hot weather seriously, you can significantly improve your electric vehicles performance and longevity. Just follow these simple tips to ensure your car maintains its range and overall efficiency throughout the summer and beyond.