Heat affects all vehicles, including electric vehicles (EVs). While internal combustion engines rely on cooling systems with antifreeze, EVs use sophisticated thermal management systems to keep their batteries at optimal temperatures (60-80°F) for peak performance.

Battery performance in EVs depends on chemical reactions that work best within specific temperature ranges. During hot weather, the thermal management system uses a small amount of power to maintain ideal temperatures.

Here are 5 essential tips for maximizing your EV's performance in warm weather:

1. Park in Shade or Garage

• Reduces battery and cabin temperature while parked
• Minimizes energy needed for cooling when returning to vehicle

2. Precondition While Plugged In

• Cool the cabin before your journey using the car's app or media system
• Keep plugged in during preconditioning to use grid power instead of battery

3. Drive Efficiently

• Reduce aggressive acceleration and braking
• Use ECO mode to limit energy expenditure

4. Optimize A/C Usage

• A/C impact on range is minimal compared to heating
• For city driving, consider windows down
• On highways, moderate A/C use is more efficient than open windows

5. Smart Charging Practices

• Limit fast charging to 80% State of Charge (SoC)
• Charge during cooler nighttime hours
• Keep plugged in overnight at around 50% SoC
• Consider using a trickle charger for the 12V battery

Think of your EV like a smartphone - both perform better when not overheated and when managed properly. Your EV's Battery Management System (BMS) and thermal management system work together to maintain optimal battery health and performance in all weather conditions.

Public fast chargers are designed to handle extreme temperatures, so you can charge confidently even during heat waves. Always consult your owner's manual for specific guidance on your EV model.

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