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Updated on 10/01/2024
The winter season is here, so the temperatures will start to drop. We are still uncertain about whether "Filomena" will strike again, the snow storm that completely paralysed half of Europe a few years ago. Filomena was the biggest snowstorm in more than half a century in Europe, especially in the South. Even though the authorities warned us about its arrival, in some countries we were not used to dealing with these sub-zero temperatures and amounts of snow and ice. Filomena had a huge impact, paralysing roads, with thousands of vehicles trapped on roads and dual carriageways, which made it clear that we were not very well prepared for driving in such extreme conditions, mainly due to the lack of knowledge on how to drive under these conditions.
Electromaps wishes to make its contribution with a few tips on how to drive your electric car in snow or in sub-zero temperatures.
To begin with, we must keep in mind that an electric car, despite being electric, is still a car, so all of the usual recommendations apply.
Keep in mind that electric motors are a great ally in these situations, since the absence of a clutch, gears and the instant torque will allow you to start your trip by pressing the accelerator pedal very gently, which reduces the risk of losing traction. It must also be taken into account that electric cars usually feature narrower tyres to reduce friction and increase range, which will also help drivers drive in snow, since the contact surface is smaller. However, what is most important in these cases is to use winter tyres, which will allow you to drive with greater safety.
Another interesting feature of electric cars is that the regenerative braking system is a much smoother, well-balanced and adjustable system, which can reduce the probability of skidding during braking, among other things. In addition, using the motor for accelerating and braking increases the consistency and safety levels while driving. However, you must be careful when the battery is cold (first few kilometres), since the regenerative braking system only works when the battery is warm, so it is advisable to increase your attention and reduce your speed during the first few kilometres. The regenerative braking system will start working when the battery is warm.
On the opposite side, we can find the range. As you already know, electric cars do not like extremes. Cold weather has a huge impact on range, so we recommend leaving your home with the battery fully charged if you are going to drive on snowy and icy roads. Also keep in mind that switching on the heating system will somewhat reduce the range. However, the pre-heating system in electric cars (which can be activated while the vehicle is not running) helps warm up the passenger compartment and the battery before the vehicle is used. Another advantage of electric vehicles is that they do not have the cold start problems of internal-combustion-engine vehicles.
The battery charging time is longer if the batteries are cold, so you must keep in mind that charging your car at your home charger during the night may take longer than usual. This will also happen at any public charging station.
To sum up, the characteristics of electric motors, combined with regenerative braking systems, can make driving in very bad weather safer and easier than driving a conventional car, while the pre-heating feature guarantees comfort at the steering wheel during your trip.
7 tips to drive an electric car in snow and cold weather
1. Start your trip with your battery fully charged or almost fully charged.
2. Use winter tyres or carry snow chains.
3. Wear winter clothes.
4. Drive slowly and smoothly, and try not to swerve. Preferably, use the ECO driving mode.
5. Pre-heat your car.
6. Use the regenerative braking system.
7. Inspect the windscreen wipers and make sure that they are in perfect working order.
Remember to always carry with you a cable to charge your electric car, so you can charge your car if you arrive at a charging station without one. If you are going to make a long trip that requires driving in sub-zero temperatures, make sure that you plan the trip well, checking which charging stations are available on your route and having a Plan B or C in case there are any unforeseen circumstances. Remember also to check the list of accessories you should carry in your vehicle.
