Yes, frequent heatwaves can reduce the range of an electric vehicle (EV). Here’s how heat affects EVs:
Impact of Heat on EV Range
- Temperature Below 90°F (32°C): Electric cars typically experience a minimal range loss of about 2-5% in temperatures below 90°F.
- Temperatures Above 95°F (35°C): EVs can lose a more significant portion of their range, often between 15-31%, due to high temperatures. This reduction is because the battery’s thermal management system works harder to keep the batteries cool, consuming more energy.
- Extreme Heat (Above 100°F): Some studies indicate that EVs can lose up to 31% of their range in extremely hot conditions, although these estimates are based on limited data and may need further verification.
Factors Contributing to Range Loss
- Battery Cooling: In very hot conditions, EVs might use more energy to maintain optimal battery temperatures, contributing to reduced range.
- Air Conditioning: While using air conditioning in an EV does consume energy, its impact on range is typically less significant than heating in cold weather.
Overall, while EVs are designed to handle a variety of temperatures, frequent exposure to extreme heat can lead to decreased efficiency and range.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/can-frequent-heatwaves-reduce-the-range-of-an-ev/
