Many motorists have switched to an electric vehicle (EV) in the last few years and even months, which means that ownership is still relatively new to these motorists.
Therefore, it is helpful to be aware of how you can protect and maintain your vehicle during the winter months, ensuring optimal performance and longevity. Keep reading to find out more.
Battery Care in Cold Weather
It is important to be aware that the cold weather can reduce your EV’s battery efficiency and range. To mitigate this, precondition your vehicle while it’s still plugged in to warm up the battery before driving. Additionally, keeping your EV plugged in when parked helps maintain battery temperature and charge. Regularly monitoring your battery’s health is also advisable to pick up small issues before they become larger problems.
Optimising Driving Habits
Adapting your driving style can enhance your EV’s performance in the winter months. Utilise eco-driving modes to moderate acceleration and conserve energy.
Be mindful of regenerative braking, as its effectiveness can diminish in colder conditions. It’s also important to be cautious when driving in snow and ice, as many EVs have quick acceleration from a standstill.
Tyre Maintenance & Vehicle Checks
Driving in winter can be dangerous with wet and icy roads, so you want to make sure that your tyres are suitable for winter conditions. Consider switching to winter or all-season tyres if you frequently encounter snow or ice. You should also regularly check your tyre pressure as it can drop in cold weather, which can affect traction and efficiency.
Additionally, inspect your vehicle’s heating system and defrosters to ensure they are functioning properly. When performing maintenance tasks that require kneeling, such as inspecting tyres or checking under the vehicle, using knee pads can provide added comfort and protection.
Charging Considerations
Charging times can increase in low temperatures due to the battery’s chemical properties. Whenever possible, use a garage or covered area to shield your vehicle from extreme cold during charging. Preconditioning the battery before charging can also help improve charging efficiency.
The advice in this post should help you keep your EV in tip-top condition during the coldest months of the year. Many motorists have only made the switch in recent times, so it is important that you know how to look after your EV during the winter months.
There are some similarities but also differences between winter maintenance and regular vehicles, so it is helpful to know what the key areas to focus on are to prevent issues.
