EV drivers have been warned as they could face a £100 fine under the Highway Code as electric cars are hit by winter struggle.
With the winter looming upon us, drivers are more vulnerable to having a range scare.
Getty ImagesEV drivers are at more risk during freezing conditions[/caption]
If a vehicle gets stuck, it can pose a risk to other drivers obstructing traffic.
However, EV batteries can drain quicker in colder or rainy conditions which leads to more mile range anxiety.
If your vehicle dies in the middle of the road it could also result in points on licence and a £100 fine – according to Rule 97 of the Highway Code.
Luckily, motor experts at Distrelec shared some precautions drivers should take to prevent being caught out during freezing temperatures.
Motors experts recommend to always keep your vehicle covered in a garage or under a safe space away from the bad weather.
“Shielding your EV from the elements as much as possible will have a positive impact on battery health, so if possible, EV owners should keep their car in a garage or covered area if not in use.
“If a garage or covered area isn’t available, a simple tarp or frost cover will do the trick,” they said.
Another way to avoid a dangerous range scare during icy conditions is to slow down and use the eco-mode.
EVs have a higher risk as they are heavier than a normal fuel or diesel car – with an average of 1,940kg.
Drivers should also reduce their speed to maximise the range by using the eco-driving mode.
The motors pros said: “Using this will help to keep mileage up and reduce power consumption.”
As temperatures drop, the air in tyres can contract and its pressure plummet – causing dangerous driving.
For this, it’s important to check your tyres regularly and make sure they’re at the correct pressure level.
Heating the interior of your vehicle can also drain your electric battery.
Instead, drivers can precondition their vehicle while still plugged to a charging point to save on range.
Many EVs have heated seats and steering wheels, so heating these will use less energy than the air conditioning unit.
Finally, car owners can use regenerative braking to be able to slow down as smoothly as possible rather than braking suddenly.
It comes as EV drivers have been urged to follow five steps this winter to keep them safe on the road – or risk being stranded.
As temperatures plummet, electric cars can struggle to perform with the same efficiency, but these tips could save you £1,000s.
Meanwhile, a woman who lives in her car has revealed a £15 “life-saver” everyone swears by doesn’t keep you warm.
Content creator Madison Clysdale took to TikTok to recommend a better product – and it only costs £30 from B&M.