Summer heat is here, and for electric vehicle owners, that often means a familiar trade-off: stay cool or save range. Air conditioning can consume 15 to 20 kilometers of range per hour of operation, making it one of the biggest drains on your battery during hot weather. But with a few simple habits, you can keep your cabin comfortable without sacrificing mileage.

Vent First, Then Cool

One of the most effective—and easiest—tricks is to roll down your windows for two to three minutes before switching on the AC. This allows the trapped hot air inside the cabin to escape, reducing the cooling system's workload. The result? About 30% less energy is needed to bring the interior down to a comfortable temperature.

Set the Right Temperature

Once the AC is on, aim for a cabin temperature between 24°C and 26°C (75°F to 78°F). Every degree you raise the thermostat saves roughly 5% of battery power. A good rule of thumb: keep the interior about 8°C cooler than the outside temperature—anything colder wastes energy without significantly improving comfort.

Small Habits, Longer Drives

AC use doesn't have to mean range anxiety. By venting hot air first, setting a sensible temperature, and avoiding overcooling, EV owners can extend their driving range while staying comfortable. These small adjustments cost nothing, require no tools, and make a noticeable difference on every summer trip.