How to avoid problems with electric commercial vehicles in winter?
Electric commercial vehicles lose up to 30% of their range in winter due to cold temperatures affecting battery performance. You avoid winter problems by pre-heating your vehicle while it is on the charger, parking it indoors whenever possible and applying smart charging strategies. Regular maintenance of tyres, heating systems and electrical components will help your commercial vehicle get through the cold months reliably.
Why do electric commercial vehicles lose range in winter?
Electric commercial vehicles lose range in winter because cold temperatures slow down the chemical processes in lithium-ion batteries. At temperatures below zero degrees, the range may decrease by 20-30% compared to summer conditions. The battery cells work less efficiently, so they can provide less energy to the engine.
Besides battery performance, energy consumption for heating plays a big role. Your commercial vehicle uses extra power to keep the cabin warm, the windscreen ice-free and the battery itself warm. All this comes at the expense of driving range.
The increased rolling resistance of cold tyres and the thicker air at low temperatures also cause additional energy consumption. If you regularly take short trips where the battery does not have a chance to warm up, this effect becomes even more pronounced.
How do you make sure your electric utility vehicle starts up properly in the cold?
Pre-heating while your vehicle is on the charger is the best way to avoid cold-start problems. Use your commercial vehicle's app to warm up the cabin and battery before you leave. This takes no energy from the battery itself as the power comes directly from the charge point.
Park your electric utility vehicle indoors whenever possible. A garage or covered parking area protects against extreme temperatures and keeps the battery warmer. This can improve range with 10-15% compared to outdoor parking.
Plan your charging times smartly. Charge your vehicle just before departure so that the battery is still warm from the charging process. A warm battery delivers more power and ensures better performance during the first kilometres of your drive.
Which maintenance tips will help your electric utility vehicle through the winter?
Check your tyre pressure monthly because cold air the pressure by 1-2 psi per 10-degree temperature drop reduces. Properly inflated tyres reduce rolling resistance and help maintain your range. Consider winter tyres for better grip and safety on slippery roads.
Test your heating system regularly to make sure it is working efficiently. A faulty heater not only causes inconvenience but can also lead to fogged windows and reduced safety. Change cabin filters on schedule to maintain optimal airflow.
Keep electrical contacts and charging ports clean and dry. Moisture and salt from road salt can cause corrosion to important electrical components. Also check rubber seals around doors and windows to prevent heat loss.
What are the best charging strategies for electric commercial vehicles in winter?
Keep your battery charged between the 20% and 80% during the winter months. A completely flat battery in freezing temperatures can suffer permanent damage, while an overfull battery limits the regenerative braking function. This bandwidth gives you flexibility and protects battery health.
Use fast chargers strategically, but not exclusively. Fast charging generates heat that helps bring the battery up to temperature, but don't do this too often as it can stress the battery. Combine fast charging for long trips with slow charging at home for everyday use.
Plan your charging sessions so that they end just before you leave. A freshly charged battery is warmer and performs better. Use timer functions in your car or charging station to control this automatically, so you always hit the road with an optimal battery temperature.
How Van Den Hurk helps with electric commercial vehicles
We make your switch to electric driving worry-free, even during the winter months. With over 60 years of experience in commercial vehicles, we understand exactly what challenges you face and how best to tackle them.
Our support for electric commercial vehicles includes:
- Personal advice on the right electric model for your business needs
- Practical tips for winterising and seasonal maintenance
- Guidance on charging solutions and range planning
- Flexible leasing options to suit your budget
- Supporting the switch from fuel to electric
Want to know which electric company car is best for your business? Contact us for a no-obligation consultation. We will be happy to help you make the right choice and make sure you are well prepared for all seasons.
