On the hottest summer days, until the electric car feels the impact. Although silent and efficient, these vehicles also suffer from extreme temperatures, especially at battery level. The point is to know what to do not to waste energy.
According to Mobi.E, a public entity for electric mobility, there are several practical measures that help maintain the autonomy of the electric car even on days of intense heat. The key is to know when driving, where to park and how to carry.
High temperatures affect the battery
Electric vehicle batteries operate better between 15 ° C and 35 ° C. When thermometers exceed these limits, there is a natural increase in internal resistance, which compromises energy performance.
According to the same source, excess heat can lead to premature battery aging and even decreased charging efficiency, reducing the kilometers available by charge.
Parking in the shadow can make a difference
Leaving the car exposed to the sun directly for hours is one of the most common errors. Write the Mobi.E that parking in the shade or using a para-sunset on the windshield can help keep the internal temperature lower and therefore save energy in the cooling.
In addition, a less warm cabin allows the climate control system to consume less energy when starting, which translates into more battery for the route.
Load
Heat affects not only conduction but also loading. According to the same source, carrying the car at higher hot times can reduce efficiency and, in extreme cases, cause thermal stress on the battery.
Therefore, it is recommended to charge the vehicle during the milder hours of the day, early in the morning or at night. Mobi.E also suggests avoiding loading up to 100 percent and maintaining levels between 20 and 80 percent, especially in summer.
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Soft conduct prolongs autonomy
Experts explain that, as in a combustion vehicle, driving style greatly influences consumption. Quick steps, sudden brakes or high speeds should be avoided.
For those who have this functionality, economic mode of driving helps to soften engine response and optimizes energy management, making the most of regeneration during braking.
Smart Use Air Conditioning
The air conditioning system is another factor to take into account. Explains to Mobi. And excessive use of air conditioner consumes precious energy from the battery. To minimize the impact, it is recommended to prepare the car while it is still connected to the charger.
Thus, when starting the trip, the cabin will be fresh and the battery charge intact, even if part of the energy has been used, the result is a better use of charging.
Electricals gain space in the market
These advice arise at a time of strong growth in electric mobility. According to, in Portugal, electric car sales increased 42.3 percent in May compared to the same month of 2024, totaling 4,478 units sold.
In the European Union set, EFTA and the United Kingdom, the accumulated growth in the first five months of the year reached 27.8 percent. In Portugal alone, there were 20,375 electric cars enrolled between January and May 2025.
Small gestures, great results
Reducing battery wear in summer does not require major changes. Only conscious decisions in everyday life. Park with criteria, knowing when carrying and adjusting driving are simple strategies that prolong autonomy and prevent unpleasant surprises.
In the end, more than saving energy, it is a matter of ensuring that each kilometer counts. And that, with temperatures rising, can even make a difference.
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