Electric vehicles (EVs) offer several pre-cooling options to improve cabin comfort and optimize battery performance before driving, especially in hot weather. Here are the main available pre-cooling methods:
EV Pre-Cooling Options
1. Scheduled Departure Preconditioning
Many EVs allow you to set a specific departure time via their app or infotainment system. The vehicle then automatically pre-cools the cabin and preconditions the battery while the car is plugged in and charging. This means the energy for cooling comes from the grid rather than the battery, preserving driving range and ensuring a comfortable temperature as soon as you enter the vehicle. For example, the Chevrolet Bolt and Ford EVs support this via their mobile apps and vehicle infotainment.
2. Remote Climate Control Activation
Through a smartphone app connected to the EV, you can remotely start the air conditioning or heating to cool or warm the cabin before you get in. This can be done on demand and is useful if you arrive at the car unexpectedly or at a time different from the scheduled preconditioning. It also draws power from the grid if the car is plugged in, or from the battery otherwise.
3. Preconditioning During Charging
When an EV is plugged in, preconditioning systems can run without depleting the driving battery. The vehicle uses mains electricity to manage cabin temperature and battery thermal conditioning to maximize battery efficiency and lifespan. This process also clears windows from mist or frost.
4. Battery Thermal Management Pre-Cooling
Advanced EVs employ systems that actively cool the battery prior to departure. Some models use a secondary-loop liquid pre-cooling system with heat exchangers to remove heat from the battery, optimizing performance and reducing thermal stress during driving in hot climates.
Brand-Specific Implementations
- Tesla: Offers preconditioning via the Tesla app, scheduled departure feature, or when navigating to supercharging stations.
- Ford: Users can schedule departure time via Sync or app, which preconditions the battery and cabin while plugged in.
- Hyundai Kona EV: Can be pre-cooled remotely when plugged in, maintaining range efficiency even in warm conditions.
- Other EV Brands: Most modern EVs, including Kia Niro and Ford Explorer, have some form of preconditioning accessible via app or infotainment.
Benefits of Pre-Cooling for EVs
- Reduces battery energy consumption during the drive, extending range.
- Provides immediate cabin comfort at entry without waiting for the temperature to stabilize.
- Protects battery health by managing thermal conditions before driving.
- Defogs or defrosts windows, improving safety and convenience.
In summary, EV pre-cooling is primarily done by scheduling cabin and battery preconditioning through apps or infotainment systems while the vehicle is plugged in, complemented by remote start functionality. Some vehicles also use advanced thermal management systems to cool the battery itself before driving, enhancing performance and longevity. These options together make EV driving more comfortable and efficient in hot conditions.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/what-are-the-pre-cooling-options-available-for-evs/
