Does Hot Weather Impact Mercedes-Benz Electric Vehicle Driving Range?
You may have heard that hot weather and Arizona summers aren’t great for EV drivers. The truth is, heat can impact the driving range, but it’s probably not as bad as you think. Below, we’ll explore why and how much summer heat affects Mercedes-Benz electric vehicle driving range. Visit Mercedes-Benz of Arrowhead in Peoria, AZ, to view the latest EVs.
Why Does Hot Weather Make a Difference in Electric Vehicle Driving Range?
In the summer, your car will need more energy to run the air conditioning and prevent the EV battery from overheating. However, it should be noted that gas-powered vehicles also need to use extra power in the summer for air conditioning. The truth is that extreme temperatures can impact the driving range in any type of vehicle. In short:
- Summer heat forces you to allocate more power to cooling your car.
- Even gas-powered cars may suffer in extreme heat.
How Much Driving Range Will I Lose Driving in Summer Heat?
The estimate for driving range reduction has been set between 5% and 25%. The actual reduction you’ll see depends on a few factors, including the outdoor temperature, length of your trip, and more.
Is There Anything I Can Do to Maximize My Driving Range in Summer?
There are a few strategies for maximizing driving range in summer heat. For example, you’ll see less impact if your car is kept in a cool garage, and the trip is short, since your car won’t have to work as hard to stay cool under those conditions. Here’s how you can beat the summer heat:
- Store your car in a cool place such as a garage or shady area.
- Use the minimum amount of air conditioning that feels comfortable.
- Consider offsetting energy use by turning off the radio and other devices.
- Drive at cooler times of day, such as early morning or late in the evening.
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