Recurrent AutoFollowing ‘s very enlightening report on the effects of fast charging on battery life, the company has published another report examining the effects of climate on battery health. In the study in the USA 12,500 Tesla Model Y The data obtained from the vehicle is used and starting from 2020, a range score is determined for each vehicle and the battery life span is monitored in different states across the country.
There’s a clear correlation between longer battery life in colder states, with northern Model Ys scoring an average longevity score of 95, while the southernmost regions of the country score 92.
We already know that batteries do not like heat, and it is not difficult for anyone to say that the battery capacity will last longer in cold regions without the need for testing. Again, supporting a known result with data is of course the best thing.
Tesla range score is higher in cold climates
Recurrent Auto chose the Model Y to collect data because of Tesla’s advanced preconditioning battery system, which is active at all times, not just during charging. It maintains optimal battery temperatures in cold or hot weather. It is also the most popular electric vehicle brand in the US, making data collection much easier. Additionally, it also holds the title of the world’s best-selling car. As you know, Model Y is on sale in our country and we now come across many vehicles on our roads.
The study uses the vehicle’s maximum battery range estimate as the basis, rather than the EPA, because the EPA is often wrong from day one.
Range scores for Model Ys in hot and cold climates
Interestingly, there are many vehicles in hot states that have good battery scores because their owners keep their Model Ys in the garage. That’s why Recurrent Auto recommends keeping your electric vehicle in the shade as much as possible or leaving the battery half-charged on hot summer days. This will work in the long run. These measures have an even greater impact if the vehicle does not have an active thermal management system.
Of course, cold weather also affects battery range, but this is only a temporary effect. Once the battery reaches optimum operating temperature, the estimated range returns to normal.