Factors affecting electric vehicles during excessively hot weather.
Hot weather leads to increased temperatures, posing numerous explosion risks for automobiles in general, including electric vehicles.
Impact on vehicle operation range
Electric vehicles rely on batteries for operation. However, continuous operation of electric cars in hot weather conditions can lead to battery overload, resulting in overheating and reduced stored charge capacity. Over time, this accelerates the degradation of electric vehicle batteries.
According to research conducted by the American Automobile Association (AAA), if the outdoor temperature exceeds 35°C (95°F), using the air conditioning in the car can decrease the vehicle's operating range by up to 17%. When the temperature rises above 40°C (104°F), the operating range of electric vehicles can drop by as much as 20%.
Extended charging times
In reality, lithium-ion batteries function optimally within the temperature range of 20 - 25°C (68 - 77°F). Higher temperatures cause electronic components within the battery to deteriorate more rapidly. Moreover, as the battery nears the overheating threshold, the charging speed decreases. This adjustment is made by the Battery Management System (BMS) to avoid overheating. In severe cases, charging might even be temporarily halted to ensure safety while waiting for the battery to cool down.
Reduced battery lifespan
Electric vehicle batteries also experience degradation over time, similar to other types of batteries. However, adverse conditions can accelerate the rate of battery degradation. A study conducted on 6,000 electric vehicles revealed that hot weather can cause faster degradation of batteries compared to temperate climates. Additionally, battery degradation can be even faster if owners in hot climates frequently use fast charging. This is due to the increased heat generated by fast charging, resulting from the higher electric current.
Hot weather's impact on battery lifespan is even more pronounced compared to temperate climates.
During summer charging, it is advisable to opt for standard charging whenever possible, such as using a 7 kW standard charger, and to minimize exposure to direct sunlight for the vehicle as much as possible. Furthermore, it is recommended to charge only up to 80% of the battery capacity. Typically, manufacturers advise against fully charging the battery to prevent excessive heat buildup. Combining this practice with extremely hot weather increases the risk of accelerated battery degradation.
Effects of hot weather on tires
Apart from diminishing the operating range and battery lifespan, hot weather also adversely affects tire pressure. Tire pressure can be negatively impacted during hot sunny days, especially for electric vehicles, as most electric car models are heavier than their internal combustion engine counterparts in the same segment.
In the long term, prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause damage and accelerate the aging process of the vehicle.
Facing scorching heat isn't just a challenge for humans; it also affects various modes of transportation. Over time, frequent exposure to high temperatures can lead to damage and expedite the aging of vehicles. Therefore, vehicle owners should implement measures to mitigate the effects of hot weather on electric vehicles, ensuring the durability of their automobiles.
