What is the impact of the heatwave on your electric car’s autonomy?

After a rough spring, the sun and high temperatures are a boost for morale, but a bit less so for batteries.

A thermometer that exceeds 35 degrees can influence battery activity, but rest assured this is not a reason to refrain from electric car trips this summer! Engie and Roole provide a brief overview of the impact of temperature on your electric vehicle’s range, and what to do to limit the downsides of heat on your trips.

Is it serious, doctor?

Lithium-ion batteries begin to degrade at around 50 °C and do not handle temperatures above 70 °C well. You can see that under normal usage conditions, the chances of reaching such extremes are low. However, the temperature depends on both the battery’s activity and the outside environment. Thus, it is more likely to heat up during sporty driving than in high heat. Smooth and gentle driving minimizes the risk of battery overheating, so stay gentle at the wheel. Your passengers will appreciate it.

Overheating directly results in a decrease in range. The impact will be less if your electric motor is powered by a battery equipped with a good cooling system. More specifically, liquid cooling is the most effective. Tesla, Hyundai, Audi, and Kia, to name a few, are equipped with this technology. BYD also utilizes it, but the Blade technology without internal circulation limits its positive impact.

Is the air conditioning our enemy?

When it’s hot, the first reflex is to turn on the air conditioning, but just like in a thermal car, overusing air conditioning can impact the vehicle’s range. For example, on a 200 km trip completed in 2.5 hours in a compact electric vehicle, the air conditioning can cost you 10% of range. Since heat can lead to lapses in attention or discomfort, don’t deprive yourself of this accessory to save a few minutes of charging. However, use it wisely and in moderation, such as ventilating passengers more than the windshield! Most recent models are now equipped with a reversible heat pump that optimizes comfort in the cabin without generating too much loss of range.

And charging?

The charging speed automatically decreases as the battery approaches the overheating point to avoid any damage. Thus, if you are traveling in a heatwave and want to recharge at a rapid charging station, expect longer charging times than usual. Charging stations can also be affected by heat and deliver limited charging power. Therefore, consider prioritizing covered stations for charging during very hot weather.

Also, prefer charging at night or early in the morning. The battery and charging station are less affected by the heat, and you gain comfort as well. For long trips, and for daytime charging, prefer covered stations or underground parking.