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Navigating Electric Vehicles in Cold Climates: A Comprehensive Guide

Optimize your Polestar electric vehicle's autonomy and efficiency during winter driving. This article offers advice on key factors to consider while operating your Polestar in cold weather conditions.

Navigating Electric Vehicles in Cold Climates: A Down-to-Earth Guide for Drivers
Navigating Electric Vehicles in Cold Climates: A Down-to-Earth Guide for Drivers

In the cold winter months, it's essential to take extra precautions when it comes to driving, especially for electric vehicles like the Rivian and Ford models. Polestar has taken steps to ensure their vehicles are winter-ready. Firstly, tire pressure drops as temperatures plummet, making it crucial to check tire pressure during winter. Polestar vehicles are equipped to handle this, but it's always best to be vigilant. Winter driving safety depends on preparation. Maintaining your vehicle's condition is paramount, but Polestar goes a step further. They recommend carrying a winter kit, which includes essentials like a blanket, shovel, flashlight, reflective vest, heavy jacket, gloves, hat, and a properly inflated and checked tire with good tread depth. Visibility is key during winter, and Polestar advises drivers to top up windshield washer fluid regularly. In extreme cold, the fluid can freeze, impairing your vision. Polestar has tested its vehicles, including the Rivian and Ford models, in some of the most challenging winter conditions. The Polestar 3 was tested in the Arctic Circle amidst snowy landscapes and extreme cold temperatures. The Polestar 4 even participated in a backwards racing challenge with a rally legend. The art of driving electric vehicles like a professional was discussed by Joakim Rydholm, Head of Chassis Development at Polestar. He spoke about the driving performance of electric mobility in extreme winter conditions in an article about the Rivian and Ford models. Polestar vehicles are designed to help drivers manage energy efficiently in cold weather. Using the 'Eco' mode can increase range and make further adjustments to the climate control and tire pressure. Maintaining a battery charge level above 20% is important during cold weather to ensure sufficient energy for reheating the car and maintaining range. The 'Plus' package includes a special heat pump, a more efficient heating system that uses less energy. The preheating feature allows for preheating the vehicle before driving, saving range. Using heated seats and steering wheel on short trips can also allow for lower heating and maintain a comfortable cabin temperature. If embarking on a longer trip that requires a charging stop, adding a stop at a fast-charging station to the navigation route can make the charging process faster and more efficient. Avoiding sudden acceleration and braking in winter conditions can increase safety and range. Lastly, preheating a Polestar in a garage or covering it with a tarp or ice-resistant cover can save energy during preconditioning. The snowflake icon on the Polestar display indicates the battery is too cold to use all available energy. Polestar's commitment to winter-ready electric vehicles is evident in their design and testing. Whether you're a seasoned winter driver or new to the roads during the cold months, Polestar's electric vehicles, including the Rivian and Ford models, are a reliable choice.

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