The Gulf states are paying increasing attention to the future of electric mobility, especially as summer temperatures in Saudi Arabia soar to record highs of 40°C. The batteries in these vehicles endure unprecedented thermal stress, raising questions about their ability to maintain performance and long term efficiency. The following sections explore the key challenges facing battery cooling systems and the impact of extreme heat on driving range, then offer practical tips for users to ensure their electric vehicles remain safe and perform optimally.
Battery Cooling Systems to Maintain Performance
The battery represents the most critical component in an electric vehicle, and losing control over its temperature causes a significant drop in efficiency. Automakers have therefore integrated advanced cooling solutions that circulate a liquid coolant through the battery cells before transferring heat to external radiators for rapid dissipation.
This cooling loop relies on a pump that forces fluid through narrow channels, while some premium models add auxiliary fans to boost airflow around sensitive electronics. The system remains active both during driving and extended stops in exposed environments, keeping battery temperature within a safe range, prolonging its service life, and minimizing the risk of sudden thermal failures.
Range Reduction Under Extreme Heat
The available driving range of an electric vehicle depends directly on the energy stored in its battery cells, and this energy declines when the cells are exposed to high temperatures. Field studies conducted in Saudi Arabia’s desert have shown that range can drop by roughly five to fifteen percent when cruising at moderate speeds on a hot day compared to the same trip in temperate conditions. This decrease mainly results from drawing part of the battery’s charge to power the cooling pumps and the air conditioning that keeps passengers comfortable.
Drivers can mitigate this loss by adopting smoother driving habits and using eco or range saving modes, which limit acceleration and reduce overall energy consumption. Setting the air conditioner to a reasonable temperature, no lower than 27 or 28 degrees Celsius, also prevents excessive power draw immediately after departure.
Practical Methods to Shield the Vehicle from Direct Sunlight
When the desert sun dominates the sky, the car’s components heat up rapidly, so taking preventive steps before and after each journey is essential. Parking under a canopy or inside a shaded structure alone can lower the cabin temperature by more than ten degrees within an hour. Using reflective sunshades on the windshield and side windows creates an insulating barrier that blocks ultraviolet rays and prevents the air-conditioning from running at maximum power upon departure.
In addition, opening the windows briefly before setting off allows trapped hot air to escape and fresh air to circulate. Once the cabin cools, closing the windows and directing the vents toward the seats where passengers will sit ensures a more comfortable environment without overburdening the battery.
Regular Maintenance and Enhanced Charging Options
Regular maintenance for electric vehicles becomes even more crucial under Saudi Arabia’s hot climate, as it preserves the cooling system and extends battery life. It is essential to check coolant levels and replace the fluid according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, in addition to cleaning radiators from dust and sand that could block airflow. Inspecting the coolant pumps and ensuring that the fluid lines remain free of corrosion also helps maintain optimal thermal performance.
When it comes to charging, investing in fast charging stations equipped with integrated battery cooling systems proves highly effective, allowing safe and efficient charging even in extreme ambient heat. Choosing stations that actively manage battery temperature throughout the charging cycle further protects cell integrity and prevents performance loss due to heat buildup.
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.
