How Electric Vehicles Are Affected by Summer Heat

Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming an increasingly popular choice for drivers around the world, especially in regions looking to reduce carbon emissions. But as temperatures rise in the summer months—particularly in hot climates like the Middle East—EV owners may notice some changes in their vehicle’s performance. So, how exactly does summer heat impact electric cars?

Battery Performance and Range

One of the most critical components of an EV is its battery. Lithium-ion batteries, like those found in most electric cars, are sensitive to extreme temperatures. In high heat, the chemical reactions within the battery speed up, which may sound beneficial at first—but it comes at a cost.

Hot weather can lead to:

• Faster battery degradation over time.
• Reduced charging efficiency.
• A noticeable drop in driving range, especially when using air conditioning heavily.

To protect themselves, many EVs use battery management systems (BMS) that automatically cool the battery using built-in systems. However, these cooling processes also consume energy, which can further reduce range.

Increased Use of Air Conditioning

During summer, air conditioning becomes essential—and EVs rely solely on electric power for climate control. Unlike gasoline vehicles that use engine heat to power A/C compressors, EVs draw that power directly from the battery. In extreme heat, prolonged A/C usage can reduce available driving range by up to 10–20%.

Charging and Infrastructure

Heat can also affect public charging infrastructure. Charging stations exposed to direct sunlight may experience overheating, causing slower charging rates or temporary shutdowns. Additionally, fast charging in hot weather can generate more heat in the battery, leading to throttled charging speeds for safety.

Tips to Protect Your EV in Summer

• Park in shaded or covered areas whenever possible.
• Avoid fast charging during the hottest times of the day.
• Pre-cool the cabin while the vehicle is still plugged in.
• Monitor tire pressure, as it increases with heat and may affect driving safety.