When it comes to electric cars, preheating has been widely recommended in order to save the battery and maximize the range. However, new research conducted by SINTEF and NTNU suggests that preheating may not always be necessary and could actually be a drain on both the electricity grid and your wallet.
According to Åse Lekang Sørensen, a researcher at SINTEF, having a fully-charged battery is not essential for most car journeys. Therefore, preheating your electric car in this way may be putting unnecessary strain on the electricity grid and causing higher electricity bills.
In fact, the study found that preheating electric cars puts a significant burden on the electricity grid, especially during cold winter mornings when the total load on the grid is at its highest and electricity prices are at their most expensive. This means that preheating from the mains in the morning could result in higher electricity bills due to the higher spot prices and potentially a higher grid tariff.
So, what’s the solution? The researchers recommend charging your electric car smartly at night when capacity in the grid is greater and electricity is cheaper. Then, you can preheat your car using the battery without connecting it to the grid. This way, you can still ensure a warm and comfortable ride without putting unnecessary strain on the electricity grid or your wallet.
FAQ
Should I preheat my electric car every morning?
Preheating your electric car every morning may not be necessary and can put unnecessary strain on the electricity grid and increase your electricity bills. It is recommended to charge your car smartly at night and utilize the battery for preheating instead.
Does preheating my electric car save the battery?
Contrary to popular belief, having a fully-charged battery is not essential for most car journeys. Therefore, preheating your electric car in order to save the battery may not be necessary.
How can I save money on electricity when preheating my electric car?
To save money on electricity when preheating your electric car, it is recommended to charge your car at night when electricity is cheaper and utilize the battery for preheating instead of connecting to the mains in the morning.
Can preheating my electric car affect the electricity grid?
Preheating electric cars can put a significant burden on the electricity grid, especially during cold winter mornings when the total load on the grid is at its highest. This can impact consumption and potentially result in higher electricity bills.