How to manage an electric car in winter?

Winter presents challenges for the electric vehicle, which "doesn't like" extreme temperature changes of heat and cold. How does the electric vehicle cope with winter weather? Does the cold affect the vehicle's battery and driving range? Can you charge the electric vehicle in the rain? Let's clarify.

Winter is coming, bringing with it cold and rain, strong winds, and sometimes even floods. Temperature changes, especially cold and rain, affect the electric vehicle in terms of battery capacity and efficiency, vehicle charging, and driving range.

Winter Driving in an Electric Vehicle

Driving a vehicle in winter requires extra caution, and in this case, there is no difference between an electric vehicle and an internal combustion engine vehicle. The electric vehicle weighs more than an internal combustion engine vehicle due to the battery installed in the vehicle. Therefore, it is important to adjust the driving style to the weather conditions, which include rainy days with wet and slippery roads, and to ensure gentle acceleration and lower driving speeds to maintain control of the vehicle.

The electric vehicle contains electronic components that are expensive, so it is important to drive slowly on wet surfaces or when passing through puddles to avoid damaging these components and to prevent harm to the regenerative braking system.

Effects on Battery Capacity and Efficiency

Low temperatures cause increased resistance in the battery cells, leading to a significant decrease in battery efficiency. The optimal operating temperature range for the electric vehicle battery is between 20 degrees Celsius and 45 degrees Celsius. When the external temperature drops below 20 degrees Celsius and approaches zero, battery efficiency decreases due to the need to raise the battery temperature and maintain it within the desired range. This is especially true for those who live or visit high places like the Galilee and Golan Heights, Jerusalem mountains, and the Arava region, where you can expect a decrease in driving range and longer charging times.

What Should You Pay Attention To?

We have gathered some important tips for driving an electric vehicle during the winter:

1. Tire Condition - Low temperatures can cause a drop in tire air pressure, affecting battery range. Therefore, it is important to maintain proper tire air pressure to improve energy efficiency by 3 to 7 percent.
2. Covered Parking - If possible, parking the vehicle in a covered place will help maintain a higher battery temperature.
3. Connected to Power - If possible, keeping the vehicle connected to the charging station not only maintains battery charging but also helps keep the battery warm. Some electric vehicles have a "Keep Warm" mode that can be activated during charging.
4. Take into Account - On cold days, the driving range shortens by 20% to 30%, so it is important to consider this, especially when going on long trips.
5. Before the Trip - Preheating the passenger compartment while the vehicle is still connected to the charging station will reduce energy consumption during the trip. This way, you start the journey with a full battery and a comfortable vehicle.
6. During the Trip - Instead of using the air conditioning system for heating, it is better to use seat heating, which consumes less energy and provides a pleasant warmth without affecting the battery range.
7. Driving in Economy Mode - This will help reduce the use of energy consumers and focus energy supply on necessary areas.
8. Adjusting Regeneration - In low temperatures, it is better to set the regeneration to the lowest level to preserve the battery.
9. Charging Challenge - Low temperatures cause the battery to take longer to charge, so it is important to be patient until the battery warms up and can charge properly. Also, fast charging in low temperatures can "stress" the battery, so if possible, avoid fast charging in such cases.

In conclusion, proper handling of the electric vehicle during the winter requires a change in thinking, and over time it becomes part of the driving routine. It is important to remember that each electric vehicle may have specific recommendations, so it is advisable to refer to your vehicle's manual for personalized results.