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How to Precondition Your Ford EV
Master Winter Driving with Tips from Columbine Ford!
Electric car preconditioning is a simple yet essential practice that ensures comfort, safety, and optimal battery performance. It involves defrosting windows, pre-warming or cooling the cabin, and regulating the battery’s temperature. This is particularly important in extreme weather or when preparing for rapid charging. At Columbine Ford, we understand that Colorado winters are as beautiful as they are brutal. Our team has put together some practical tips for local drivers gearing up for below-freezing temperatures to help you prepare your electric vehicle for cold weather. If, after reading our EV preconditioning tips and tricks, you would like to make an appointment to have our team give your Ford EV a once over, or you would like to slide into the set of a Mustang Mach-E, Lightning or whichever Ford EV you have been eyeing fill out the form at the bottom of the page.
What Does it Mean to Precondition Your EV?
Preconditioning your Ford EV is a cool feature that makes driving in the Colorado winters more comfortable and efficient. It lets you warm up the cabin in winter or cool it down in summer, saving battery power. Plus, it optimizes battery temperature, leading to faster charging and better range, especially in cold weather. You can schedule preconditioning through your car’s screen or app, making it super convenient. It’s a win-win for a comfortable and efficient ride!
Why Should I Precondition My EV?
Preconditioning your Ford EV is a cool feature that makes your drive more comfortable and efficient. It lets you warm up the cabin in winter or cool it down in summer, saving battery power. Plus, it optimizes battery temperature, leading to faster charging and better range, especially in cold weather. You can schedule preconditioning through your car’s screen or app, making it super convenient. It’s a win-win for a comfortable and efficient ride!
Remove All Snow from Your Vehicle Before Driving
Clearing snow from your Ford electric vehicle is crucial for advanced driver assistance features’ efficiency, safety, and optimal performance. Removing snow from your electric vehicle is vital for efficiency and safety. By clearing the snow, you reduce weight, minimize air resistance, and improve visibility. Many of your Ford EV’s advanced driver assistance technologies, like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and emergency braking, rely on clear sensors and cameras. Snow or ice can obstruct these systems, hindering their proper function and potentially compromising your vehicle’s safety.
Park Your Electric Vehicle in a Garage When Possible
Parking your electric vehicle in a garage is a great way to protect it from harsh weather and optimize its performance. Garages provide a warmer environment, which benefits battery health and efficiency, especially in cold weather. This can help maintain range and faster charging times. Plus, you can safely precondition the cabin while parked in the garage, ensuring a comfortable ride without worrying about emissions. By parking your EV in a garage, you can enhance its performance and overall driving experience.
Keep Your Electric Vehicle Plugged In During Extended Parking
Keeping your electric vehicle plugged in during extended periods, especially in cold weather, is essential for battery health and performance. This allows its battery management system to regulate the battery’s temperature, especially in freezing conditions. Even when not actively charging, the system works to keep the battery above freezing, ensuring optimal performance and preventing unnecessary strain. This simple habit helps your vehicle perform optimally, even in extreme weather conditions.
Set Daily Departure Times to Optimize Battery and Cabin Preconditioning
Setting a departure time for your Ford EV can improve efficiency and comfort if you have a consistent driving schedule. This feature preconditions your vehicle while plugged in, ensuring a comfortable cabin and improved battery performance for all those chilly Colorado mornings. You can set departure times through the vehicle’s SYNC touchscreen or the FordPass app. By using this feature, you can maximize battery efficiency and enjoy a comfortable driving experience.
Reduce Energy Consumption with Smart HVAC Use
To maximize your Ford EV’s range and efficiency, especially in cold weather, consider using heated seats and steering wheel instead of relying solely on the cabin heater. These features use less energy, helping you conserve battery power. Additionally, minimize cabin heating during DC fast charging sessions to maximize charging time and efficiency. By prioritizing energy-efficient heating solutions, you can extend your EV’s range and maintain optimal performance.
Ensure Proper Tire Pressure for Optimal Range and Safety
Maintaining correct tire pressure is crucial for maximizing your Ford EV’s range and ensuring safe, efficient driving. Properly inflated tires optimize performance, prevent range degradation, and ensure safety. Check and adjust tire pressure regularly, especially in colder weather. Additionally, limiting your speed can help maintain optimal performance and range. Following these tips can enhance your EV’s efficiency and overall driving experience.
Get Your Electric Ford Ready for Winter with Expert Tips and Support from Columbine Ford
By following these tips, you can ensure that your Ford EV is ready to handle winter weather. At Columbine Ford, we prioritize customer satisfaction and offer a wide range of automotive solutions. We’re here to help you with all your EV needs, from purchasing to maintenance. If you have any questions, feel free to complete the form below or visit us in person to speak with one of our friendly service advisors. We’re happy to help you get the most out of your Ford EV.
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