When it comes to electric car charging, it’s important that drivers are aware of the natural dangers throughout the year. An EV battery can be affected by high and low temperatures. As we get into the colder months, with winter just around the corner, it is vital that drivers understand how cold weather affects their EV battery and how they can avoid this issue.
Why EVs Lose Range in Cold Weather
This is primarily due to the fact that in seasons such as winter and autumn, the battery temperature is significantly lower than in warmer weather. This temperature affects the electric car charging time, which often drops below 0 degrees. Typically, electric vehicles’ optimal charging temperature is between 20 and 40 degrees, which is hard during this period. This is due to the battery’s electrochemical processes slowing down much like the temperature.
However, this doesn’t mean that there there are solutions to this problem. During the winter, the EV will probably not reach its maximum charging capability. When the electric car is charging, some of the charge will automatically go to actually heat the battery rather than charging. But, there are electric car charging solutions that drivers should consider as we head into autumn and soon winter.
How Much Range Do Electric Vehicles Lose in Winter?
Electric vehicles are impacted by the cold and lose some of their range. The electric vehicle itself, its potential range in moderate weather, and whether the heat is on is only a few of the variables that affect how much range is lost. EVs frequently lose 12% of their range in cold weather, but the loss soars to 41% with the heater on full blast.
Batteries are similar to people. They favour temperature ranges that are similar to those that people do. They won’t operate at their best in temperatures below 4°C.
How to Avoid Slow Electric Car Charging Times
When taking long trips, preconditioning your EV battery can be helpful. Essentially, this method instructs your electric vehicle to warm the battery before departing. This will ensure it is in prime shape when you leave. It is accessible on the majority of contemporary electric vehicles. Without preconditioning, you’ll notice that your battery will discharge more quickly while you’re driving since your car will try to warm the battery on its own, which uses energy.
For more information on charging solutions during the colder months, read our previous blog here.
Portable EV Chargers
Although it is recommended that drivers park and charge their vehicle in a garage at home, utilising a home charge point, what if they do not have the space? Many homes across the UK that have garages do not use them to store their cars, only for storage. However, with portable EV chargers, this idea can still be applied.
Instead, drivers can implement portable EV chargers to ensure they can safely charge their car in a heated location. For example, most businesses offer on-site parking which typically involves indoor car parks. Drivers can use a portable EV charger here, leaving their car whilst at work and returning to a fully charged vehicle.
Elite EV Charge
Here at Elite, we provide temporary and permanent EV charging solutions for cars across the UK. From event charging to destination charging, we offer a range of solutions to improve the infrastructure for electric car charging.
For more information, or to receive a quote, fill in our form here. Make sure to follow us on Instagram to stay up to date with our latest services and news in the EV industry.