Charging at low temperatures: get the most out of charging

Electric cars, like their petrol counterparts, see their batteries affected by cold weather. For the ID. range, this means that during the frostier months their charging performance can suffer. Read on to find out why this happens, and how you can be better prepared when the temperature drops.

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Your battery’s performance

Your ID.’s battery is affected by the weather conditions. Its peak performance, which is calculated under WLTP conditions, is when the temperature is approximately 23 degrees. When these conditions change, so can the performance of the battery.

How temperature impacts the battery

The battery charges best at temperatures over 20 degrees. Due to their design for increased efficiency, electric car batteries experience almost no warming on longer journeys, which is why we’ve equipped the ID. range with thermal management technology to ensure balance between efficiency and performance is maintained.

Charge level and your battery

The battery’s charge level also influences charging performance. Battery cells are designed to be more receptive when the charge level is lower, it’s possible that the exact same car using the same charger could charge at different rates if one has significantly less battery power than the other. This means that if you charge only when the battery really needs it, your car will charge faster.

Tips to get the best out of charging

  • Preheat the battery using the interior air conditioning to ensure your battery is better able to retain and take on charge.
  • When parking on colder days, try to avoid parking spaces that are exposed to the elements. It’ll help your car become less cold.
  • Keep an eye on your charging level. Only charge your car when it’s running low on battery, it makes charging quicker and also helps increase your battery’s longevity.
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Drive it your way. All of our electric and hybrid models come with distinct driving modes that allow you to easily change the settings to suit all sorts of weather and road conditions.

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At the end of the agreement there are three options: i) pay the optional final payment and own the vehicle; ii) return the vehicle: subject to excess mileage and fair wear and tear, charges may apply; or iii) replace: part exchange the vehicle. With Solutions Personal Contract Plan. £400 deposit contribution on vehicles up to 12 months old. £250 deposit contribution on vehicles from 13 to 36 months old. 18s+. Subject to status & availability. T&Cs apply. Ordered by 01/07/2024. From participating Retailers. Indemnities may be required. Subject to changes in vehicle or equipment prices. Not available in conjunction with any other finance offer. †Valid for vehicles up to 100,000 miles at point of activation. MOT Cover is up to 2 years and is underwritten by Bspoke Underwriting Ltd on behalf of Watford Insurance Company Europe Limited and administered by Lawshield UK Limited. Offer subject to change or removal at any time. Accurate at publication date 05/2024. Freepost Volkswagen Financial Services.