Navigating the cold with electric vehicles - A hands-on manual
In the heart of February 2023, the Polestar 3 electric vehicle was put to the test in the cold weather conditions of the Arctic Circle. A group of journalists braved the icy landscapes of Arjeplog, Sweden, to evaluate the capabilities of this high-performance electric vehicle in extreme winter weather conditions.
The Polestar 3 was subjected to a series of tests on a custom-built track carved into a frozen lake over a meter thick in Jokkmokk, Sweden. This was an opportunity to assess the vehicle's performance in the most challenging weather conditions, showcasing its resilience and adaptability.
One of the key findings was the importance of maintaining a battery charge above 20% during cold weather to ensure sufficient energy for reheating the car and providing the necessary range. The Polestar 3's snowflake icon on the display indicates when the battery is too cold to use all available energy, highlighting the need for careful management of battery levels in cold weather.
Covering the Polestar with a tarp or an ice shield during preheating can help save energy, contributing to the vehicle's overall efficiency in cold weather. Additionally, using heated seats and steering wheel on short trips allows for lowering the heat while maintaining a comfortable cabin temperature, further conserving energy.
Joakim Rydholm, Head of Chassis Development at Polestar, was consulted about driving high-performance electric vehicles like a professional in such extreme weather conditions. His insights provided valuable guidance on how to navigate the icy tracks, emphasising the importance of smooth, gradual acceleration and braking to maximise range and ensure safety.
Pre-conditioning is a feature available in Polestar vehicles that allows preheating the vehicle before driving, saving range and battery energy. This function can be scheduled to allow the battery to warm up before the journey, ensuring a comfortable cabin temperature upon departure.
For those embarking on longer trips, adding a stop at a fast-charging station to the navigation route ensures warming the battery for efficient charging. It's also crucial to check tire pressure in cold weather, as it tends to drop as temperatures drop.
A winter kit is essential for safe and comfortable winter weather driving. This should include a blanket, shovel, flashlight, reflective vest, heavy jacket, gloves, hat, and a properly inflated and checked tire with good tread depth.
As Polestar continues to push the boundaries of electric vehicle technology, it's exciting to see the Polestar 3's true capabilities being put to the test in the cold weather conditions of the Arctic Circle. And with the Polestar 4 being used in a backward racing challenge with a former rally champion, it's clear that Polestar is committed to innovation and performance in all weather conditions.
In conclusion, driving in winter requires preparation to ensure safety and well-being. By following these tips and utilising the features available in Polestar vehicles, winter weather driving can be a smooth and enjoyable experience.
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