While all-electric vehicles are the future, their driving range does get impacted by the cold. For many drivers, this winter marks the first cold season behind the wheel of an all-electric pickup truck. Ford is well aware of this and recently released a few tips to help maximize the range of F-150 Lightning in cold weather.
The automaker noted that the F-150 Lightning has been tested in extremely cold conditions, including months of real-world winter driving in Alaska and Michigan as well as in innovative atmospheric test chambers (at extreme temperatures ranging from -40°F/-40°C to 140°F/60°C).
Because of this testing, it's known that in cold temperatures, batteries have a higher chance of offering limited energy and limited power (both, discharge and charging power output).
Essentially, temperatures under 40°F make an electric vehicle’s electrolyte fluid become sluggish, limiting how much power is available to discharge and how quickly the vehicle’s battery can charge. As F-150 Lightning customers across the United States and Canada begin their first winter with their new electric pickup, Ford wants to help make them aware that in low temperatures they could see a significant reduction in range, which is normal.
Ford has some reliable tips that Ford F-150 Lightning users (and other EV drivers) can utilize before their next trip:
1. Park your F-150 Lightning in a garage whenever possible.
2. Keep your F-150 Lightning plugged in when parked.
3. If planning a longer commute, you can ready your vehicle using departure times to warm the battery while plugged in via the FordPass app or your truck's center screen.
4. Ford also recommends using only heated seats and the heated steering wheel instead of blasting heat through the vehicle’s vents. Sticking with the seats and steering wheel helps reduce how much energy it takes to warm the vehicle. If it’s too cold to not use ventilated heat, keep it on low.
5. When charging, turn off the heater if possible, or lower the temperature enough to remain comfortable.
6. If your F-150 Lightning is covered with snow, brush all the snow off before driving to eliminate extra weight and drag.
7. Keep driving speeds moderate in cold temperatures as high speeds use more energy.
8. Make certain your tires are at the proper pressure.
Winter is hard on all machines, and only time will tell how well the first iteration of Ford F-150 Lightning trucks will cope with winter. However, these great tips can help you get the most out of your Ford F-150 Lightning throughout the cold months.
To learn more about the latest Ford F-150 Lightning or any of our great all-electric vehicles and powerful pickups, browse our new inventory online. And don’t hesitate to contact us today with any questions or to schedule an appointment at Brian Hoskins Ford!