Cold Weather Challenges for EV Drivers: Essential Tips and Tricks

MTE's Plugged In

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Cold Weather Challenges for EV Drivers: Essential Tips and Tricks

Driving an electric vehicle in winter presents its own unique set of challenges, and the latest episode of MTE's Plugged In podcast addresses these head-on. Hosts Amy and Brandon explore practical winter driving tips for EV owners, drawing from their own experiences and feedback from the EV Car Club community. The discussion begins with a holiday greeting and transitions into the critical topic of winter driving, where Brandon shares his recent experience driving his Tesla Model Y through icy conditions. His insights into the advantages of EV weight and all-wheel drive provide a nuanced understanding of how these factors contribute to safer driving in winter weather.

The episode delves into several important considerations for EV drivers during winter months, such as the necessity of preheating the vehicle for comfort and battery efficiency, the importance of maintaining proper tire pressure and the impact of colder temperatures on battery performance. Amy and Brandon also discuss the importance of driving cautiously and being aware of the vehicle's regenerative braking system, which can behave differently in icy conditions. They highlight tips shared by community members that emphasize preparedness, such as charging practices and the use of winter-specific driving modes available in some EV models.

Listeners gain valuable insights and practical advice tailored to navigating the winter landscape in electric vehicles. The hosts invite listeners to share their own experiences and tips. This episode is informative and encouraging, reminding drivers that with the right knowledge and preparation, they can confidently face winter driving challenges in their electric vehicles.

Takeaways

• This podcast episode emphasizes the importance of preheating your EV to improve battery efficiency in cold weather.
• Listeners are reminded that electric vehicles generally handle better in icy conditions due to their weight distribution.
• The hosts discuss specific driving modes, such as 'chill mode', that enhance safety on slippery roads.
• Maintaining correct tire pressure is crucial for optimal performance and safety in winter driving conditions.
• Planning your route and departure time can significantly enhance your EV driving experience in snow and ice.
• The discussion highlights the necessity of charging EVs beyond the usual 80% in extreme cold weather to ensure sufficient range.

MTE's Electric Vehicle Programs & Educational Resources

• https://mte.com/DriveEV — Hub for all things electric vehicles at MTE
• https://mte.com/EVCarClub — MTE-sponsored car club for EV owners and enthusiasts interested in building a community in Middle Tennessee
• https://mte.com/EVReady — $50 incentive for MTE members or homebuilders installing level 2 chargers at their homes

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