One of spring and summer's simple pleasures is riding around with windows down on a sunny day. If you have an electric vehicle (EV), there are specific steps you can take to prepare for summer travel or a quick errand down the road as warm weather returns.  

Maximize your EV’s performance in the months ahead with these simple practices:

• If possible, consider parking inside or under shade. Parking in shade reduces heat from building up in the EV, resulting in less time running the air conditioning when it’s time to drive again. As an alternative, consider reflective window covers or sunshades to block heat producing rays.
• Charge during off-peak hours. Charging in the morning or later in the evening helps relieve stress on the vehicle’s battery and allows for a faster charge time. It can also prevent the charging equipment from overheating.
• Plan your trips ahead of time. During extreme heat, battery power drains quicker and charging times take longer. Be intentional when planning outings and combine trips whenever possible. This may include running errands while driving home from work to prevent a special trip later.
• Use windows for cooling down. Running the air conditioning can significantly drain the battery, so consider putting the windows down for a breeze. If the AC is needed, set the temperature to a comfortable level instead of blasting at maximum power.
• Consider the vehicle’s weight when traveling. If you are driving your EV for a road trip, try packing only necessary items to prevent the vehicle from being weighed down. Extra weight decreases your vehicle’s efficiency and range.

Want to learn more about EVs? Visit Indiana Michigan Power's (I&M) Electric Vehicle web page for more information about discounted rates; rebates; EV makes and models; how to charge EVs; locations of charging stations and more.