With continuous improvements to battery technology and growing public charging networks, range anxiety on modern EVs is largely a thing of the past. But, for those looking to squeeze every ounce of efficiency out of their electric car as we enter the warmer months, there are still a number of steps you can take to reach record range figures. This guide outlines the best ways to maximise electric car range and efficiency in the summer months.
How to maximise EV range and cost savings in the summer
There’s already good news here – typically, summer temperatures are much more friendly to an EVs battery performance than cold winter conditions. Studies show that an ambient temperature between 20 and 25 degrees celcius is where an EV performs most efficiently, which typically coincides with the average summer temperature for many countries. However, there are still steps you can take in the summer months to maximise efficiency, particularly when the mercury rises above that sweet spot.
Air conditioning vs windows down
To keep yourself cool whilst maximising efficiency, at slower speeds around town and in heavy traffic, putting your window down will save energy compared to running the air conditioning. However, at higher out-of-town speeds, the drag created by an open window will put more energy demand on your electric motor than just running the air conditioning. The speed at which this occurs depends on the car, but previous research has shown around 50mph to be the sweet spot.
if your EV has a heat pump, which is becoming much more common on new models, the energy penalty for running AC is significantly lower than on older resistive-heating systems. Heat pumps move heat rather than generate it, using up to 70% less energy in the process. So, if you’re in a newer car, don’t stress about the AC quite as much.
What you should definitely use, regardless of model, is cabin pre-conditioning. Cooling your car while it’s still plugged in means you’re drawing on grid power rather than battery power, so you set off at full charge into an already-cool car. Most EVs allow you to schedule this via manufacturer apps. Even if your car isn’t plugged in, it’s still a great summer luxury to come back to a cooled car, rather than one that’s been basking in the sunlight.
Driving style
Slightly warmer temperatures might be better for EV efficiency, but summer heat still doesn’t defy the basic rules of efficient EV driving. Much like you should also do in colder weather if you want to maximise range and efficiency, you should mostly use light to moderate acceleration, and make the most of regenerative braking – particularly on downhill sections. Using the ‘eco’ or ‘efficiency’ modes found on most EVs can assist you in keeping your acceleration down, as these modes typically dull the throttle’s responsiveness.
Check your tyre pressure
Variations in temperature as we come into the warmer summer months can cause the pressure within your tires to fluctuate from their recommended pressures. Manufacturers set these defined pressures with both safety and efficiency in mind, so it’s important to frequently check these are at the correct level before setting off on a trip.
Most modern EVs will alert you to low tyre pressures with a warning light on the dash – don’t ignore that light, both for safety and energy-saving reasons.
Choose when you charge
Charging generates heat, and charging in the hottest part of the day, when your battery may already be warm from driving, can put additional thermal stress on the pack and reduce charging speeds. Charge up in the early or late hours or overnight, if possible. As an added benefit, some home EV tariffs and public charging networks will also reward you with lower electricity rates if charging during these off-peak hours.
Consider solar and V2G/V2H
Hotter weather usually means more sunlight, which in turn create the perfect conditions for solar energy generation. Implementing a solar system at your home to charge your EV could help bring down your cost of EV ownership even further.
With many EVs now supporting bidirectional charging, the argument for combining EV ownership with solar is even stronger. A growing number of models can now send energy back to your home (V2H) or to the grid (V2G), benefiting you financially by supplying power out of the EV at times of high demand when energy is more expensive.
Bidirectional charging also brings vehicle-to-load (V2L) as a useful summer tool. For summer activies such as beach trips, garden parties, or outdoor events, EVs which support V2L allow you to power items such as a coolbox or speaker directly from the car’s main battery.
