Navigating electric cars during cold temperatures: A hands-on tutorial
Preparation is key when driving in winter, and your well-being depends on it. With this in mind, Polestar has designed and tested its cars for winter conditions. The Polestar 3, for instance, was recently evaluated by a group of journalists in the Arctic Circle, showcasing its capabilities in extreme winter conditions.
One of the features that make Polestar cars winter-ready is their efficient climate control system. Using the "Eco" mode increases range and makes further adjustments to climate control and tire pressure. For added comfort, heated seats and steering wheel can be used on short trips to lower heating while maintaining a comfortable cabin temperature.
The "Plus" package includes a heat pump for more efficient heating and increased range in cold months. The preconditioning function also allows for heating the vehicle before driving, saving range. To maximise efficiency, it's advisable to pre-warm the battery before charging at a fast-charging station, making the charging process faster.
Safety and range can be maximised by avoiding sudden acceleration and braking during winter driving. It's also crucial to check tire pressure during winter as it drops as temperatures drop. In case of a longer journey on less-traveled roads during winter, it's advisable to bring a winter kit that includes a blanket, shovel, flashlight, reflective vest, heavy jacket, gloves, hat, and properly inflated and checked tires.
For those interested in Polestar's performance capabilities, the Polestar 4 was used in a backward racing challenge with a former rally champion. Joakim Rydholm, Head of Chassis Development at Polestar, was consulted to understand what it means to drive an EV like a professional.
To ensure visibility while driving, it's crucial to top off windshield washer fluid during winter. The snowflake icon on the display indicates the battery is too cold to use all available energy. In such cases, preheating a Polestar in a garage or covering it with a tarp or anti-freeze cover saves energy during preconditioning.
Adding a stop at a fast-charging station to the navigator's itinerary can make charging more efficient. Maintaining a battery charge level of at least 20% is important during cold weather to ensure sufficient energy for reheating the car and providing necessary range.
In conclusion, Polestar's electric vehicles are well-equipped to handle winter conditions, offering features such as efficient climate control, preconditioning, and a heat pump to ensure a comfortable and safe driving experience. By following these tips, you can ensure that your Polestar is ready for any winter adventure.
Read also:
- Hyundai N affirms transition to hybrid performance-centric models, initiating with Tucson N
- EAFO Research Uncovers Crucial Elements in Electric Vehicle Adoption within the EU
- Hyundai Motor Company Presents Ambitious 2030 Strategy and Product Plan during 2025 CEO Investor Meeting
- Race kicks off for Audi to close the gap
