7 Tips To Maximize Your EV’s Range And Efficiency This Winter
Learn To Maximize Your EV’s Range And Efficiency This Winter With Bill Brown Ford
Bill Brown Ford in Livonia, Michigan, is committed to providing our customers with the education and knowledge to maximize the benefits of their new Ford EV, including busting common EV myths and answering how to get the most range this winter.
When it comes to Ford EVs, they have been tested in the most challenging conditions, being pushed to the max, ensuring the quality and performance of each model. For example, the Ford F-150 Lightning has been tested in extreme weather, including temperatures as high as 140°F to as low as minus 40°F. Even enduring months of real-world winter driving in Alaska and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. However, all-electric vehicles experience energy decreases in cold temperatures as the batteries provide less energy due to slowed electrochemical reactions. The electrolyte fluid becomes slower at temperatures below 40°F, reducing the amount of power that can be discharged and the rate at which the vehicle’s battery can be charged. Below Bill Brown Ford will break down seven valuable tips to help maximize your EV range and efficiency this winter.
1) Park your EV in a garage to boost battery performance
The EV batteries are designed to maintain a specific temperature; if that temperature drops, they warm up using the stored energy. Therefore, parking your EV in a garage can significantly boost battery performance. The warmth of the garage helps reduce the charging time and allows the battery to hold its charge for extended periods.
2) Keep your EV plugged in when parked
To optimize your EV’s performance and overcome a phenomenon known as “range anxiety,” keep it plugged in when parked, so you have the maximum range possible before setting out on your next winter commute.
3) Heat your EV’s cabin beforehand
If you have a road trip planned this winter, heat your EV’s battetty beforehand using the departure times feature on the FordPass app or the center screen. This will help you warm up the battery more efficiently for an extended range. For maximum battery percentage, it is better to heat the cabin while the vehicle is still plugged in.
4) Use heated seats and steering wheel as a primary heat source
Since seat and steering wheel warmers consume far less energy than conventional HVAC systems, using them as the primary heat source is much more energy efficient and helps the battery last longer. When charging, it’s best to turn off the heater or lower the temperature enough to remain comfortable, especially when using DCFC.
5) Brush all the snow off before driving
Snow on your EV can increase weight and drag; brushing it off before driving is recommended so you don’t have to use extra battery power to carry it around.
6) Drive your EV at moderate speeds
The harder you push your EV to extract more performance, the faster it will drain its battery. The most practical method to maximize your EV’s range in cold temperatures is to drive it at moderate speeds, helping the battery store enough charge to carry out longer excursions.
7) Make sure the tires are properly inflated
During winter, the air inside the tires contracts due to dropping temperatures, leading to lower tire pressure and higher rolling resistance. This hinders the battery performance and reduces the driving range significantly—To prevent this from happening and to enhance battery efficiency, frequently check your tires’ pressure in the winter.
Configure Your New EV at Bill Brown Ford Near Metro Detroit!
Whether you are in the market for a new Electric vehicle or a Hybrid option, Bill Brown Ford is your local Michigan Ford dealer for a reason. Check out our easy and efficient online custom order and configuration tool, which allows you decided what features better suit your needs in the convenience of your home.
Are you looking for a new Ford to head home in this holiday season? Bill Brown has over 200 vehicles on the lot, ready for immediate delivery. Configure your new 2023/2024 Ford EV model today, or check out our available TrueView Inventory™! Questions regarding a specific model? Contact a Bill Brown Ford sales team member below.
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