Navigating the Chill

In keeping with the name of my channel, I thought this would be a good start. A checklist for winterizing your vehicle in particular those things that affect an EV or Plug In Hybrid

Checklist:

Charging Station Locations:

❑ Identify nearby charging stations and plan your routes accordingly.

Tire Maintenance:

❑ Switch to winter tires for enhanced traction on icy roads.
❑ Regularly check tire pressure as it tends to decrease in colder temperatures.

Preconditioning:

❑ Use your EV's preconditioning feature to warm up the cabin while still plugged in.
❑ Set a departure time to ensure a comfortable start in cold weather.

Range Expectations:

❑ Be aware that extreme cold can impact your EV's range; plan accordingly for longer charging stops.
❑ If you haven't already, consider installing a home charger for added convenience. This become even more beneficial in the winter.

Cabin Comfort:

❑ Invest in a quality set of winter accessories like heated seat covers and steering wheel covers if your vehicle doesn't already have these. They are often more efficient than keeping the internal temperature higher to be comfortable.
❑ Pack blankets and extra layers for passengers during chilly rides. If the battery is getting low, unfortunately one of the first things to shut down is the heating/cooling system to maximize range.

Fluid Checks:

❑ Ensure that all fluids, including windshield washer fluid, are suitable for freezing temperatures and keep it topped up particularly in the event of foul weather. All the cameras are dependent on being able to see so you may find yourself using more than a traditional vehicle.
❑ If you have a plug in hybrid, keep your coolant at the recommended level.

Emergency Kit:

❑ Pack an emergency kit with essentials like a blanket, flashlight, candle, portable cell phone charger and cable as well as non-perishable snacks.
❑ Include tools for minor repairs, like a multitool and tire repair kit.

❑ Be aware many vehicles today don't include a spare tire, not even one of those "donut" mini tires. If doing an extended road trip or if venturing into areas off the beaten path, consider getting an actual spare in case you get a flat or ruin a tire. This also means a jack and wrench to change the tire too. Finally, it goes without saying, learn how to use them too.

Winter-Ready Battery:

❑ Keep your EV plugged in when not in use to maintain battery health.

❑ Ensure your plug in hybrid or electric vehicle has a cold-weather package or winter mode. Winter mode is usually for the acceleration control to manage slipping in bad conditions.

❑ If driving a plug in hybrid, note many have a starter battery that is used to get things going and run the radio, etc. These have very low capacity and are easily run down. Do not use the ACC mode in the winter if you can avoid it.

Software Updates:

❑ Stay updated on software releases for your EV; manufacturers often provide winter-specific enhancements.
❑ Check for any recalls or important announcements related to cold weather performance.

Community Support:

❑ Connect with local EV communities to share experiences and tips.
❑ Explore online forums for advice specific to EV ownership in northern climates. Let us know of any resources you find so we can link to them too.