Electric vehicles are hailed as the future of transportation, offering a greener alternative to their internal combustion counterparts. But as EVs continue to navigate the roads of innovation and adoption, they face a silent challenge that can significantly impact their performance: temperature extremes. From the freezing cold of winter to the scorching heat of summer, how do these environmental conditions affect the efficiency, range, and overall functionality of electric vehicles? In this blog, we'll delve into the fascinating dynamics between temperature and EV performance.
The Cold Hard Facts
In colder climates, EVs face significant challenges, with battery performance taking a noticeable hit. The chemical and physical reactions that power electric car batteries, specifically conductivity and diffusivity, slow down in cold weather. This results in longer charging times due to increased impedance and a temporary reduction in driving range, mainly because the heating systems draw power from the same battery that propels the car. Most vehicles have a battery management system to regulate temperature and maintain optimal performance, but certain models, like the Nissan Leaf and Tesla, have specific thresholds for activating these systems. The general advice is to keep the battery above freezing before charging to ensure efficiency and protect battery health​Â
Feeling the Heat
Interestingly, hot weather also affects EV batteries, albeit to a lesser extent than cold temperatures. Research indicates that in hot conditions, particularly around 95 degrees Fahrenheit with air conditioning in use, EV driving range can decrease by an average of 17%. This reduction is due to the increased total energy in the system, which accelerates both desired and undesired chemical reactions within the battery, leading to faster degradation. High temperatures can alter the composition and functionality of the Solid Electrolyte Interphase layer within battery cells, affecting the battery's efficiency and lifespan​
