EV drivers warned over 5 summer habits that unknowingly drain your battery
With more heatwaves predicted and summer temperatures soaring across the UK, an expert has cautioned electric vehicle (EV) owners about five everyday habits that could be unnecessarily draining their batteries.
While warm weather can make for ideal road trips, it can also have a surprising and sometimes even harmful impact on your EV's performance, as well as the long-term health of its battery. Stephen Day, operations director at EV charger installation specialists iHeat, said: "We tend to associate EV battery problems with cold weather. But heatwaves and summer driving habits can be just as demanding on your EV, often in ways drivers don't realise."
According to the insider, the following set of common behaviours in hot weather can unknowingly chip away at your EV's battery life. It comes after mindless yobs damage 41 cars in vandalism rampage through sleepy market town.
5. Air conditioning
One of the biggest culprits is the heavy use of air conditioning. On sweltering days, especially in stop-start traffic, many EV owners keep the AC running at full power. Unlike petrol vehicles, the system in an EV draws power directly from the battery.
Stephen said: "Running your AC on max during every journey can noticeably reduce your range. The more power you pull for cooling, the less is left for driving."
He advises cooling your car while it's still plugged in. Also, driving with eco or recirculate mode enabled can help maintain comfort without excessively draining the battery.
4. Too many short journeys
Short, frequent trips are another overlooked summer habit that can make your EV less efficient. School runs, errands and quick getaways may be convenient, but they stop the battery reaching its most efficient operating range.
Stephen explained: 'Your battery runs most efficiently at consistent speeds. Frequent short trips don't give the battery enough time to settle into its most efficient operating range, which means you end up using more energy overall.'
Combining errands into a single journey, or choosing to walk or use public transport for very short trips, can help maintain battery efficiency.
3. Over-packing
Carrying extra weight for holidays can quietly cut into your EV's range too. Roof racks, bike mounts and full boots all add weight and increase drag, therefore demanding more out of your vehicle and reducing its range.
Stephen advised: "Every extra kilo your EV carries means the motor has to work harder, especially when heading to coastal towns or scenic routes with lots of hills." He recommends removing unnecessary items and travelling light whenever possible.
2. Fast charging when it's hot
Fast charging in hot weather also puts EV batteries under a lot of strain. Stephen warned: "High-speed charging generates heat, and doing it when the battery's already hot from driving can lead to wear over time."
He suggests avoiding rapid charging in high temperatures unless it is entirely essential, as well as allowing the battery to cool before plugging in and opting for slower overnight charging whenever possible.
1. Parking directly in the sun
Direct sun exposure while parked is another factor that accelerates battery ageing. Stephen said: "Excess heat can interfere with your EV's battery management system. Over time, repeated exposure accelerates battery ageing."
He recommends choosing shaded parking or using reflective sunshades. He added that that leaving a window cracked slightly open can help counteract this issue.
Small additional habits, like keeping tyres properly inflated, planning routes to avoid heavy traffic and charging at night when conditions are cooler, can also protect both your EV's range and long-term performance.
Stephen signed off by saying: "Summer's a great time to enjoy your EV with quieter roads, cleaner air and cheaper running costs. But staying mindful of how heat and habits affect your range means you'll get more miles, more peace of mind, and more value from your EV in the long run."
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