There are many benefits to making the transition to a new electric vehicle for your Maple Ridge travels, and you’ll also want to be aware of how to get the best from your fuel-efficient ride. That’s why you’ll learn that a major difference between standard gas-powered vehicles and electric cars is that the cold weather during winter can impact how far your ride can go as it draws needed energy in order to also heat your cabin. To ensure you can utilize most of your electric vehicle battery range during the colder months, the experts at Go North Surrey GM are here to break down everything you need to know so you can keep moving with ease!

What Impacts Electric Vehicle Battery Range in the Winter?

As temperatures decrease during the winter months, your electric vehicle battery will require more energy to not only provide the mileage you need for your Burnaby commute but also preheat your car. Studies have shown that using your cabin heater in an electric vehicle may lower the battery range by up to 41 percent, and the battery itself can use up to around 20 percent of power just to get heated properly to work. That’s why you’ll want to be much more careful and diligent about keeping your electric vehicle charged and use best practices so as not to drain your battery range before you even hit the road. 

Tips to Maximize Electric Vehicle Battery Range in the Winter

Just because the winter months offer the challenge of using your electric vehicle battery range to its maximum potential on Burnaby roads doesn’t mean there aren’t ways you can still stay warm and go further in your car. Here are a few tips on how to conserve your electric vehicle battery power while keeping your car heated below:

1. Keep your car parked in a garage throughout the colder months if possible.
2. Set a charging time for your vehicle using your mobile app.
3. Slow down and use one-pedal driving when possible to reduce the amount of power used as you drive and brake. 
4. Preheat your vehicle when it’s still plugged in before you leave.
5. Lower heat settings so as not to waste battery power. 
6. Ensure your car is always charged at a minimum of 50 percent so reserved power can heat the battery. 
7. Utilize standard heat settings that target only the driver and passengers which will use less electricity.
8. Make sure your tires are properly inflated to the correct pressure. 
9. Use “ECON-modes” to reduce the amount of energy sent to the motor and heaters.
10. Have a backup plan if you’re traveling far and be aware of where you can locate local charging stations. 

Learn More About Electric Vehicle Care at Go North Surrey GM

Now that you’ve got a better understanding of how your electric vehicle battery range is affected during the winter-time, find more helpful car care tips for your Coquitlam commute at Go North Surrey GM. Find the right new electric vehicle for sale with our various new vehicle specials or be sure to have your car prepared for the cold with our rotating service specials and coupons. Contact us today for more information or stop by our dealership right here in Surrey!