The UK is basking in warm weather after a 30C heatwave, and with more hot weather expected over the summer, electric vehicle (EV) owners are urged to take extra precautions regarding charging, battery health, and overall performance. Extreme heat poses several risks to EVs, from reduced battery efficiency and slower charging speeds to changes in tyre pressure and increased strain on range performance.
Since EV batteries use lithium-ion technology, they perform optimally between 20–25C. When temperatures rise above this range, overheating can occur, particularly during long journeys or high-speed driving. This may lead to reduced or temporarily paused charging speeds as a safety measure.
AA's Practical Advice for EV Owners
The UK's Automobile Association (AA) has practical advice on how drivers can protect their vehicles during periods of extreme heat. The insurance broker says certain driving habits can extend an EV's battery life. There is a general rule of thumb EV drivers are urged to follow when hot weather hits: park your car in the shade, especially while charging, such as on your driveway.
The AA states: "Like all lithium-ion batteries, your electric vehicle (EV) battery will degrade over time. Despite this inevitability, it's better for the vehicle – and ultimately the environment – if the battery is preserved as best as possible." Modern EVs come with sophisticated thermal management systems designed to maintain battery temperature. However, direct sunlight adds extra heat stress, forcing the car to use its own energy to cool the battery.
Why Shade Matters
Exposure to extreme heat and extreme cold can adversely affect many materials, including the EV's battery. The AA adds: "Extreme heat is best avoided in storage and in use. But in particular, it's better to keep the vehicle out of direct heat when parked. The battery's thermal management system will cause the batteries to be drained, as the system keeps the temperature down for optimum efficiency. For this reason, on hot days, it's advisable to park your EV in the shade. Alternatively, make sure it's plugged in, so you're using the grid rather than the battery."
Equally, the thermal management system will attempt to keep the battery at a comfortable temperature during cold snaps. When it's especially cold, park it in a garage if you can, or keep it plugged in while not in use. Car manufacturer Kia also echoes similar advice, stating on its website: "Park in a shaded area – Parking in the shade will prevent the sun from heating up the car, especially if you're leaving it in one spot for a while."
