As the cold weather arrives, there are a few things that you should know about electric vehicles (EVs).

Whether you are thinking of buying and EV, already own an EV or, if this is your first winter driving your EV, the harsh cold weather we experience in the UK can be frightening to drive through in general.

However, here at Ucan we want to ensure you are safe, equipped and primed for your cold weather journeys.

So, we have prepared a full list of top tips to ensure you are all set for the change in weather and to make sure your EV is in optimal condition during the harsh weather conditions

 

1. Pre-condition/ Prepare your car before your travels

Before your journey, warming up your electric car in cold weather is recommended. You can do this by switching your heating on, defrosting, and de-icing the windows. However it is also important to note that switching the heating on in your electric car in cold weather, can reduce your driving range due to it requiring a high amount of battery voltage.

If you find yourself in a real pinch, an alternative option is to switch on the heated steering wheel and heated seats if it is available in your EV as this uses less battery power.

 

2. Switch to winter tyres

During the winter your usual tyres can lose flexibility as well as grip which is crucial for the winter climate. So, a good way to not only prevent accidents but to ensure you get the most out of your EV, is to make the move to winter tyres.

During the winter, tyre pressure can also drop, and so it is recommended you pump them back to the car model’s recommended pressure levels to avoid the tyres limiting your driving range.

 

3. Park in direct sunlight

The sun doesn’t fail to make an appearance during the winter and so a good way to get the most out of your electric car’s driving range is to park in the sun. This will prevent your EV’s battery from getting too cold.

 

4. Use the built in navigation systems

Using your built-in navigations systems in your EV will calculate the most efficient route to your destination. This will ensure you get to your destination through the route that requires least battery power.

 

5. Regular maintenance checks

Especially through colder months, it is best to get your EV properly and thoroughly checked – the last thing you want is for your electric cars in cold weather, to break down on your journey. This will also give you time to plan and get anything fixed ahead of your travels.

 

6. Go slower

As simple as it sounds, driving slower will not only minimise and prevent accidents on slippery roads in winter, but also reduces the amount of battery power needed which will help maximise your driving range.

 

7. Maximise the use of regenerative braking

Regenerative braking will recharge your batteries whilst driving through traffic when stopping however through extreme conditions through the snow and ice it is easy for wheels to slip and attain grip on the roads. As a result, through extreme winter conditions it is recommended to switch off regenerative braking.

 

8. Switch on eco mode

Eco-mode will reduce the amount of battery power needed. It enables your electric car in cold weather, to help prevent your vehicle’s wheels spinning on slip prone roads by accelerating slower. This will help you drive your electric vehicle better through the winter.

 

For more general tips and advice on how to drive safely through the winter, see our blog on the top 10 things to check before winter driving.

 

 

Find out more about our EVs

Are you interested buying an EV? Check out our showroom where we stock hundreds of cars.

We also offer test drives. See how your vehicle will drive in the winter first hand. To book a test drive imply click on your favourite car from our showroom and click on “book a test drive”.