Winter driving EV tips from Polestar
Most EVs have a preconditioning function that allows you to preheat your car before you drive it.
Swedish performance electric vehicle brand, Polestar, reveal some expert tips on how to best prepare your EV when driving this winter.
Most EVs have a preconditioning function that allows you to preheat your car before you drive it. If possible, try to keep your car in a garage or cover it with a tarp or frost cover to save time and energy warming up the car.
The safest way to drive during the winter will also help to maximise your car’s range. Your wheels have less traction on snow and ice, so quick acceleration and braking could result in the car skidding. Remember to avoid accelerating and braking quickly. Brake gently and keep to a steady speed so you use less of your battery charge.
Polestar recommends activating eco climate and using eco tyre pressure to maximise the range of your battery. Heating seats and steering wheel can keep you warm during a shorter trip.
Keep your battery charged above 20% during winter to ensure you have enough charge to heat the car again and give you the desired range for your next trip. On a longer drive, add a fast charger as a waypoint in your navigation system which you can do by asking Google to show charging along the route.
Make sure to bring your winter-kit which includes a blanket, shovel, flashlight, reflective vest, warm jacket, gloves, and hat. Check your tyre pressures and keep an eye on their tread depth as when the temperature falls, so does your tyre pressure. Lastly, fill up on washer fluid to keep your windscreen clear.
