Electric vehicle batteries in GCC countries face significant strain during the hot summer months, as soaring temperatures reduce their ability to hold a charge and impair operational efficiency. Prolonged exposure to extreme heat accelerates the gradual degradation of the battery cells, shortens driving range, and lengthens required charging times. This guide outlines practical steps to lessen thermal stress on the battery and ensure optimal performance for as long as possible in the harsh desert climate.
Protecting the Vehicle from Direct Sun Exposure
Parking in shaded areas reduces the amount of solar radiation absorbed by the car and helps keep interior temperatures relatively low, thereby preserving the integrity of the battery cells. Installing reflective window films on the windshield and side windows can further limit heat transfer, or owners may opt for specially designed covers that maintain the battery within a safe temperature range.
Drivers should avoid parking in front of large glass facades or near buildings that receive direct sunlight, as these locations elevate the ambient temperature around the vehicle’s body and place additional stress on the internal cooling system.
Optimal Charging Timing
Charging the vehicle during peak heat significantly accelerates battery cell degradation. It is therefore best to begin charging in the early morning before sunrise or after sunset, when ambient temperatures drop noticeably.
Moderate battery temperatures enable more efficient energy absorption and reduce harmful chemical reactions. Additionally, avoid using fast charging immediately after long drives, as the battery needs a cooling period before a full charge.
Utilizing Shaded and Covered Parking
Covered building parking and underground garages protect the EV battery more effectively from high temperatures than open lots, because the cooler ambient temperature around the vehicle reduces thermal stress on the cells.
When a private garage is unavailable, renting a nearby shaded spot or parking alongside a north facing wall, where direct sunlight is less intense, can significantly lessen heat exposure on the battery throughout the day.
Managing Battery Temperature During Storage
When the vehicle is parked for an extended period and before restarting it, it is best to maintain the state of charge between twenty and eighty percent to avoid overcharging or deep discharge under high temperature conditions. This balanced range preserves cell equilibrium and reduces chemical stress within the battery.
It is advisable to activate the built in cooling system before the storage period begins to circulate moderate air into the battery compartment. If external fans are available, installing them to direct a gentle airflow toward the battery can further help keep its temperature within a safe range.
Regular Maintenance and Smart Monitoring
Visiting authorized service centers on a regular basis helps assess the battery’s condition and apply specialized software updates that manage energy flow and regulate temperature. Updating the electronic control unit enhances the performance of both the cooling and charging systems, allowing them to adjust their operations according to surrounding thermal changes.
Monitoring battery temperature and charge level through smartphone applications enables preventive measures before temperatures exceed safe limits, such as activating additional cooling or postponing the start of charging until cooler periods.
Additional Tips for Summer Driving
Your driving style can help reduce thermal stress on the battery by avoiding sudden acceleration and hard braking, both of which raise the temperature of the electrical system. Maintain moderate speeds on highways and engage the regenerative braking system when decelerating to lower battery consumption.
Adjusting the cabin air conditioning to a moderate level also cuts the energy used for cooling without compromising passenger comfort.
My passion for cars began long before my journey into automotive journalism in 2015. Even though I'm originally a pharmacist, the thrill of speed, elegant designs, and roaring engines has always had my heart. Today, I channel this passion by exploring the newest cars and sharing my experiences with fellow car enthusiasts across the GCC.
