Heat waves and high temperatures Not only do these conditions pose a challenge for humans, but they also pose a challenge for electric cars. During the hottest months of the year, an increasing number of incidents and breakdowns affect these vehicles, raising concerns among current drivers and those considering the electric mobility transition. In this context, several recent studies have analyzed in detail how extreme heat impacts the reliability and range of electric cars in Spain.
Among the main problems that these vehicles can suffer Critical component failures, reduced range, and unexpected breakdowns during long trips are among the most common. According to experts, both the age of the car and the technology used by each brand are decisive factors in its resistance to extreme heat.
The electric car brands most sensitive to heat: a revealing ranking
An analysis conducted by the automotive diagnostic application Carly, based on thousands of OBD2 scans in the Spanish fleet, yields results forceful about the differences between manufacturers. Research shows that BMW ranks first in risk of critical failures when the thermometer exceeds 35 degrees, with a 73,03% probability. They are followed by Tesla (67,43%), Audi (61,08%), Mini (53,85%), Å koda (45,95%), and Volkswagen (44,87%). SEAT completes the German group with 38,66%.
On the opposite side, Hyundai (8,4%), Citroën (7,1%), Mercedes-Benz (6,86%), Toyota (6,2%) and Peugeot (2,3%) have much lower percentages. This difference is not just a matter of components, but is also explained by the Greater seniority and mileage of the fleets of the most veteran brands, compared to others that have arrived later in the electric market and suffer less accumulated wear.
How heat affects the battery, electronics, and cooling
Extreme heat is especially harmful to three fundamental systems of the electric car: the battery, the cooling systems and the electronicsBatteries, especially older ones that have been subjected to higher mileage, accelerate their internal degradation process when the mercury rises above 35°C. This situation reduces daily range and can increase the risk of serious breakdowns that could render the vehicle unusable.
On the other hand, cooling systems are working above their usual capacity to prevent overheating of the assembly, thus increasing wear and the possibility of major mechanical failures. electronic control unit (ECU) It is also extremely vulnerable to heat, with the possibility of intermittent failures and even permanent failures in essential driving systems.
Speed, the great hidden factor in the loss of autonomy
Not only heat and the use of air conditioning affect the battery and autonomy in summer. A study conducted by Geotab, after analyzing millions of trips, confirms that speed is even more decisiveWhen driving at high speeds between 80 and 130 km/h in temperatures of 30 degrees, aerodynamic drag has a much greater impact on range than the air conditioning's consumption.
For example, in an electric car, at 80 km/h and in hot weather, the range can reach 446 km, but if it is increased to 130 km/h it falls to 322 km, losing 28%. And that is because Doubling the speed quadruples the drag, placing a much greater strain on the battery than moderate use of air conditioning.
Tips and solutions to minimize risks in summer
Experts and manufacturers, as well as the Carly platform, agree on a series of Practical recommendations to enjoy a peaceful summer without unpleasant surprises with the electric car:
- Park in the shade whenever possible. to protect the battery and electronic systems from excessive overheating.
- Avoid charging to 100% on the hottest days, as full recharges generate additional heat that is harmful to the cells.
- Precondition the passenger compartment while the vehicle is still plugged in, to avoid battery consumption and reduce thermal stress.
- Limit the use of fast charging during heat waves, since this type of recharging raises the internal temperature of the battery and can accelerate its wear.
In addition, it is advisable to choose the cooler times to recharge (early morning or late evening), and look for covered charging points or public parking spaces whenever possible.
Road accidents have skyrocketed in recent years in the height of summer, not only due to mechanical breakdowns but also to electrical faults directly related to high temperatures. Intensive use of air conditioning and prolonged vehicle inactivity can further reduce daily range and accelerate the aging of electrical systems.
With a few simple habits and preventive checkups, any driver can minimize risks and continue enjoying the benefits of electric mobility throughout the summer.
