In 2021 sales of electric vehicles in the UK increased 75%, with the number two best-selling car for the year, the Tesla Model 3! For many, this might be your first experience of winter driving in an EV, and there are a few things you should be aware of to ensure you receive the best driving experience possible.
Real World Range
As you know, driving an EV is slightly different than your usual combustion engine drive, with the car using a combination of factors, including your driving style, and weather conditions, to work out what your likely real world range (RWR) is. City driving versus motorway or rural journeys can also affect this – and winter driving can have the biggest effect. If you’re planning a longer journey you should be mindful of the potential for a shorter range per charge, and build this into your planning around chargepoints.
Battery Power
Without getting ‘overly technical’, batteries supply power through a chemical reaction. Cold weather can slow this reaction down, and many manufacturers now include a heat pump which uses thermal energy to distribute heat between the cabin and the propulsion system. It's recommended that you precondition your EV before starting a journey – allowing the car to warm up the battery and cabin before setting off. Many brands (e.g. Tesla, Volkswagen, Audi) have connected apps which allow you to remotely precondition the vehicle; or set a timer to do this every morning before you start your commute.
It’s recommended that in winter months you keep your battery at a minimum of 20% charge at any given time, to allow for any really cold days and a potential reduction in power to the battery.
Overnight parking
If you have a garage within your property this will help conserve power and keep the vehicle warmer overnight. As well as conserving energy it will also mean a quicker start to the day without the need to precondition the car.
Driving style
Being a conscientious driver will ensure you maximise your range. Use regenerative braking to maximise your range as much as possible. It’s also worth using Eco-mode (or your cars equivalent) rather than sport or performance mode to again maximise your battery’s power.
Many aren’t aware, but by slowing your speed slightly you’ll be surprised at how far your range can go. In a 60 mph zone, drive at 58 mph, and in a 70 mph area keep the car at around 65 mph. Dropping just a few miles per hour can have a great impact on your overall range.
Summary
While cold weather undoubtedly has an impact on the driving range and performance of your vehicle, making some small changes and being more prepared for your drive will give you the best experience possible.
The key is to get to know your EV’s capabilities and keep the battery as warm as possible to ensure you have as enjoyable a drive as possible.
