One thing surprises almost all electric car drivers

About Mutual Insurance Company Turva electric car drivers are reminded of a common winter problem.

The insurance company reminds that electric cars are becoming more common and the mercilessness of winter can also surprise electric car drivers.

“In the freezing season, the energy consumption of an electric car can jump up and the range can shrink in the eyes, even to the surprise of an experienced driver,” the company reminds.

“In freezing weather, heating the battery and heating the interior takes a lot of energy. This can drop the operating range to up to 50 percent of the summer conditions. The shortening of the operating range is especially pronounced during long-distance journeys and in areas where the charging network is sparse,” the insurer points out.

According to Turva, you can avoid the worst winter pitfalls by taking a few easy precautions.

“Charging speeds vary considerably between car models and charging points. That’s why it’s good for an electric car driver to familiarize himself with the charging points along the route, especially during peak holiday season.”

“A warm battery charges clearly faster. In many cars, battery pre-heating is already available while driving, which speeds up quick charging stops.”

Turva’s service manager Sanna Luotio says that during winter driving the battery charge level should not be allowed to drop too low.

“A level of about 20 percent is a safe lower limit, when you can continue the journey without unnecessary stress. For long journeys, for example to the north, you should prepare with careful anticipation so that the need to charge does not come as a surprise,” stresses Luotio.

According to Turva, the electric car’s biggest winter help is preheating with mains electricity. When the car already warms up during charging, the battery’s energy lasts longer and at the same time safety is improved considerably.

“Preheating is not just a matter of convenience. A clear, melted windshield is a critical safety factor,” reminds Luotio.

In addition, the high weight and torque of electric cars require particularly good grip from winter tires. Tires in poor condition and incorrect air pressures emphasize the risks of slippage. On slippery surfaces, you should avoid sudden steering movements and accelerations.

“Freezing of the charging port is a surprisingly common nuisance in winter. If the port or connector is frozen, you should not remove it by force, but rather thaw the car in a warm place.”