Top 4 Ways Temperature & Weather Impact Electric Vehicle Performance
It’s no secret that electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular for both individuals and businesses alike. Between their environmentally friendly nature and their potential for cost savings, it isn’t difficult to see why. However, similar to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, temperature and weather can also impact electric vehicle performance.
In Extreme Temperatures, You’ll Get Fewer Miles on a Charge
Generally, extreme temperatures cause an electric vehicle’s battery to drain faster than it normally would. Freezing weather can make it more difficult for EV batteries to hold a charge and will thus shorten its range. Our EV telematics partner, Geotab, analyzed thousands of EVs in varying conditions and developed detailed data on expected EV range reductions in cold conditions. Their general findings were that at -4° F, drivers of an average EV might see about half of the manufacturer’s official range. However, this can vary significantly depending on the model and how it is stored and operated.
Let us explain. Generally, chemical and physical reactions in the battery occur more slowly in cold temperatures, which in turn reduces EV power. Cold temperatures inhibit chemical reactions and act as resistance that slows down all the physical processes of the vehicle. Not only that, but in colder temperatures, available motor heat is routed to warm the battery itself. This means that cabin heating requires a power source. Generally, cabin heaters draw from the electric vehicle’s high-voltage battery, which reduces how much charge is left in the battery for driving.
Similarly, extremely hot temperatures can also be detrimental to an electric vehicle. In fact, according to this AAA study, when outside temperatures hit 95°F and the air conditioning is blasting, an EV’s range will drop by an average 17 percent.
Wind Bogs Down Electric Vehicle Efficiency
Especially for folks who manage EV fleets in windier parts of the world, it’s important to keep in mind that wind can pose an issue for EVs. Since wind resistance increases drag and has a negative effect on aerodynamics, it causes your car to use more energy than usual to keep it operating normally, which in turn can have a negative impact on your electric vehicle’s performance. While these effects are indeed minimal, we strongly encourage fleet managers to keep tabs on weather conditions so their drivers can properly prepare.
EVs Will Operate Normally in Rainy Weather
Springtime typically brings plenty of rain showers with it, and in certain parts of the globe, from the UK to India and even parts of the US, rainfall is extremely common all-year-round. Some fleet managers may worry that their electric vehicles could malfunction due to water damage, especially when employees are re-charging an electric vehicle in rainy weather. Rest assured that electric vehicles are purposefully engineered to withstand rain and water intrusion. These seasonal inconveniences shouldn’t get in the way of your fleet’s ability to get to where they need to go.
Snow and Ice Can Impact the Traction of Your Electric Vehicle
Just like with traditional gas-powered cars, it’s extremely important to ensure that your tire treads are up-to-date if your company or home is situated in an area that experiences snowy and icy winters. Studies have shown winter tires are the single most important investment you can make for safe winter driving in any vehicle and EVs are no exception. Winter tires tend to be less efficient than all-season or summer tires, but in most cases, they will not have a major impact on range.
Within the same vein, we strongly recommend fleet managers ensure that their company vehicles have their tire pressures checked more often during the chillier winter months. Cold temperatures increase the density of air, which commonly leads to lower tire pressures. Ensuring that each electric vehicle has optimal tire pressure will help maximize the vehicle’s efficiency.
EVs Tend to Perform Better at 70°F
According to Geotab, the ideal operating temperature to get the most range out of your EV is 21.5°C (70°F). At this temperature, an electric vehicle can achieve, on average, 115% of their rated range. The farther above or below the optimal temperature, the more range is lost.
The Takeaway
Just like with traditional cars, the seasons can impact an EV’s performance in positive and negative ways. By using EV telematics and fleet utilization analysis for your fleet, you’ll be able to gauge just how much the weather and the temperature affects each electric vehicle’s performance. At Sawatch Labs, we understand that efficiency and cost-effectiveness are at the forefront of every fleet manager’s mind. As the premier fleet electrification analytics firm, we can help assess your fleet to identify when EVs will meet your drivers’ operational needs and save you money in the long run. We’ll be able to tell you exactly where, for how long, and at what time those vehicles will charge with our advanced ezEV and ezIO software platforms.
