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As the temperatures rise, so does the need to give a little extra love to our electric and hybrid vehicles. At Montway Auto Transport, we know a thing or two about getting your prized possession from point A to point B safely, and that includes helping you keep it in top shape, especially when the mercury soars.
While EVs and hybrids offer fantastic benefits like reduced emissions and lower fuel costs, hot weather can present unique challenges for their sophisticated battery systems and components. But don’t sweat it! With a few smart tips, you can ensure your eco-friendly ride stays efficient and reliable all summer long.
The heat’s impact on your hybrid or electric vehicle
The lithium-ion batteries found in electric and hybrid vehicles are sensitive to extreme temperatures. While the batteries perform optimally around 80°F, prolonged exposure to high heat (think 95°F and above) can lead to:
- Accelerated battery degradation: High temperatures speed up the chemical reactions within the battery cells, which can permanently reduce capacity and shorten overall lifespan.
- Reduced range: Heat makes electrons move more slowly, impacting power creation. Plus, your vehicle’s thermal management system and air conditioning work harder in hot weather, drawing more power from the battery and potentially decreasing your driving range by up to 20%.
- Increased thermal stress: The cooling systems in your EV/hybrid have to work overtime to keep the battery within optimal temperature ranges. If these systems are overwhelmed or not properly maintained, it can lead to permanent damage.
- Higher self-discharge: Hybrid batteries, in particular, can lose their charge faster when exposed to heat.
7 tips for hot weather EV and hybrid vehicle care
- Stay shaded: Whenever possible, park your EV or hybrid in a garage, under a tree, or in a covered parking spot. Direct sunlight can significantly increase cabin and battery temperatures.
- Optimize your charging habits:
- Avoid charging during the hottest parts of the day. Charging in the early morning or late evening can help mitigate heat buildup during the charging process.
- For daily driving, aim to keep your battery charge between 20% and 80%. Fully charging your battery to 100% or letting it drop too low, especially in hot weather, can put extra stress on the battery. Save that 100% charge for long trips you’re about to embark on.
- While convenient, frequent DC fast charging generates more heat. If you have the option, use Level 2 chargers for everyday use to be gentler on your battery.
Discover more helpful information in our EV Charging Guide.
- Pre-cool your car: Many EVs and hybrids offer a “preconditioning” feature. Utilize this! Pre-cool your vehicle while it’s still plugged into the charger. This allows the air conditioning system to draw power from the grid instead of your battery, preserving your range once you hit the road.
- Monitor tire pressure: Heat causes air to expand, which can lead to overinflated tires. Conversely, underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, draining more battery power. Check your tire pressure weekly when the tires are cold, and always adhere to your manufacturer’s recommended PSI levels.
- Be mindful of A/C usage: While comfort is key, blasting the A/C continuously can impact your range. After preconditioning, try to use the A/C efficiently. If your vehicle has seat coolers, they are often more efficient than cooling the entire cabin.
- Conduct maintenance checks: A qualified technician can inspect your vehicle’s cooling system, battery health, and overall performance. Ensure your air conditioning refrigerant levels are topped up and cabin air filters are clean for optimal airflow. Software updates are also important as they often include improvements for thermal management and efficiency.
- Drive smart: Smooth acceleration and braking, and maintaining a consistent speed, can help conserve energy. Leverage your vehicle’s regenerative braking system (where kinetic energy is converted back into electricity) as much as possible, as it helps recharge your battery.
By following these simple yet effective tips, you can enjoy a worry-free summer with your electric or hybrid vehicle, maximizing its lifespan and efficiency. At Montway Auto Transport, we’re here to help you get the most out of your vehicle, on the road or in transit!
Ready for more electric car maintenance tips? Explore this guide.
Shipping your EV or hybrid vehicle?
If you’re moving for the season or purchased a vehicle from an out-of-state seller, consider professional auto shipping services. Montway Auto Transport has experience arranging safe and reliable shipping services for EVs and hybrids across the country. Learn more about shipping hybrid and electric vehicles.
Ready to ship your EV or hybrid? Get your instant quote from Montway today!
