Winter Driving for Electric Vehicles
Cold Weather and EV Range
In cold weather, EV drivers can experience a 10-20% reduction in battery range. Batteries become less efficient as temperatures fall, which means they have to work harder to provide the same amount of power. Here are a few ways to help reduce this range loss:
- Maintain a Consistent Speed: Avoid sudden acceleration and harsh braking. Steady driving minimizes battery strain and conserves range.
- Limit Battery-Draining Accessories: Features like heated seats and steering wheels are a nice comfort, but if range is a priority, use these features sparingly.
- Use Pre-Heating: Preheat your car while it’s still plugged in, especially before starting your trip. This reduces battery strain and ensures a warm start, saving energy for the road ahead.
That being said, your average Brit drives around 7,400 miles a year, with the typical UK commute being around 550 miles a month. For an 18-mile daily commute, your EV will have more than enough charge to last the entire workweek, even in winter.
Starting with a full charge on Sunday night, an electric car with around a 200-mile range can comfortably cover five days of commuting, even if cold weather reduces its range by 10-20%. This means one charge is likely all you’ll need to get through to Friday, saving you the hassle of midweek top-ups.
Just another reason why EVs remain practical and reliable, no matter the season! Check out our blog on electric car costs and see how much you can save on your motoring costs…
Choosing Tyres for Winter Driving
For safe winter driving, the right tyres make a big difference. Winter tyres or all-season tyres designed for cold weather provide better grip and control on icy or snowy roads. EV drivers might see a slight drop in range with winter tyres due to increased resistance, but the safety benefits are well worth it. Winter tyres give EVs extra traction and stability in slippery conditions, making winter drives safer and more reliable. Check out the RAC’s winter tyres guide here.
Employers Introducing the Scheme
Employees Going Green
Winter Maintenance Tips for Electric Vehicles
Winter driving can be tough on EVs, but a few maintenance steps will help keep your EV reliable all season.
Battery Health in Winter
Cold weather can impact EV battery performance, so taking care of your battery is key. A well-functioning battery helps prevent cold-weather breakdowns, you definitely want to avoid having a vehicle that won’t start on a frosty morning. The battery condition and operation is checked as part of your vehicle’s routine service. If you require an additional check as a precautionary measure, Halfords offer free-of-charge battery checks.
Is your battery out of shape? We would recommend a replacement as soon as possible. If your vehicle has a Fleet Evolution maintenance package, then you should get in touch to organise this.
Lights
In winter, good lighting is essential for safety, especially with shorter days and unpredictable weather.
Clean Regularly: Snow, frost, and ice can build up on lights and dim brightness, so clear any debris often.
Test All Lights: Make sure all lights, especially headlights, brake lights, and reverse lights, are working properly to improve visibility in low-light conditions.
Coolant and Screen Wash
Keeping your EV’s fluids winter-ready is essential. Cold weather can impact coolant levels, so check and top up as needed, following your EV’s handbook for guidance.
Screen wash is also key in winter. Use a winter-grade formula to prevent freezing and keep your windscreen clear of salt and grime. Check levels regularly and top up with a ready-mixed or concentrated solution as directed.
Tyres for Winter
Good tyres are essential for safe winter driving, as they provide the traction needed on icy or snowy roads. To ensure optimal grip, aim for at least 2mm of tread depth; this improves handling in slippery conditions and helps prevent skidding. Additionally, cold weather can lower tyre pressure, which can affect both grip and control, so check your tyre pressure regularly and keep it at the recommended level for winter (30-35 PSI).
EV-Specific Winter Benefits
Electric vehicles come with unique perks that make winter driving more convenient. One of the biggest is pre-heating. Unlike traditional cars, most EVs allow you to pre-heat the cabin from an app, so you can warm up your car before you even step outside. This means a cosy start to your journey without having to wait in the cold.
If you have access to workplace charging, winter commuting becomes even easier. Fleet Evolution also offers free two-port chargers to companies with five or more EV-driving employees, so you can top up your charge during the workday and save on home charging.
Roadside Essentials: What to Keep in Your EV This Winter
Winter can be unpredictable, and having the right supplies in your car can make a difference in case of emergencies. Here are the essential items to keep in your EV for safe winter driving:
- Spare warm clothes: Carry extra layers, gloves, and hats to keep warm if you’re delayed or stranded.
- A blanket and high-visibility jacket: These are essential for staying warm and visible, especially if you need to leave the vehicle.
- Snacks, water, and a torch: Non-perishable snacks, water, and a flashlight are crucial if you have to wait for assistance.
- De-icer: Your EV can do this from your app, but keeping de-icer on hand can be useful in a pinch.
- Extra EV range: Hard to keep on you, but make sure you plan your public charge stops if travelling further afield!
Conclusion
Winter driving for EVs doesn’t have to be challenging if you’re well-prepared. By following these essential winter maintenance and driving tips, you can ensure that your EV is ready to handle the unique demands of cold-weather driving. With proper preparation, you’ll be able to stay safe, warm, and confident on winter roads, even in extreme weather. Fleet Evolution customers can reach out to schedule winter servicing to keep their EVs in top shape all season long.
Get in Touch
Fleet Evolution offers innovative salary sacrifice schemes, helping employers and employees save on costs while promoting eco-friendly electric cars. Enjoy easy setup, free maintenance, and swift activation for any company size.