5 Precautions To Take With Your EV In Extremely Cold Weather

As electric vehicle (EV) penetration grows across India, including high-altitude regions, new owners may face concerns about the performance in sub-zero conditions. In this quick guide, we highlight five essential steps for maintaining your EV's battery efficiency and enhancing safety during the winter months. These simple steps will ensure that both you and your electric vehicle are prepared to face extreme temperatures.

1. Monitor Battery Health

Regularly check the health of your EV battery as a standard practice. Moreover, cold temperatures can reduce battery efficiency or sometimes lead to a premature decrease in its overall range. By monitoring your battery's status and manually calculating its per kWh energy consumption, you can ensure optimal

performance and plan your journeys accordingly.

2. Precondition Your Vehicle

Before setting off, consider preconditioning your EV. This process warms up the battery and cabin while the EV is still plugged in or stationary, which can enhance battery efficiency. Modern EVs are equipped with systems that can let you precondition or warm up your vehicle before making a move. The process lets the thermal management system of your EV bring the battery up to operating temperature quickly, leading to optimum performance.

3. Use Appropriate Charging Techniques

During extremely cold weather, EV charging can take longer. Even so, EV drivers should give preference to slower, home charging outlets, which will lead to better battery health in the long term. If in need of a quick charge, there is no immediate harm in utilising public EV fast charging stations, as they can help you recharge quickly.

4. Park in Sheltered Areas

Whenever possible, park your EV in a garage or sheltered area to protect it from harsh weather conditions. This simple step can help maintain the battery temperature and prevent potential damage to other vehicle components due to extreme cold.

5. Plan Your Routes Wisely

Plan your routes with charging stations in mind, especially in colder regions where EV performance may vary. Understanding the locations of charging points can help you avoid running out of battery and ensure you have a reliable journey.

Also Read: Should I Buy A Used Electric Car? What Precautions Should Be Taken?

By following these precautions, EV owners can mitigate the challenges posed by extremely cold weather. Keeping your electric vehicle in optimal condition during the winter months not only enhances performance but also ensures a safer driving experience.