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Is it OK to charge electric cars under heavy sun?

I just bought an electric car, but I was concerned about the conditions at one of my local charging stations. There is no cover over the station, so my car is exposed to full sun while charging, and I live in a place with very hot summers. Is it OK to charge electric cars under heavy sun?

avatar
Allison Stone · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
This is a very keen observation, and you’re right to be concerned. Unfortunately, one of the downsides to an
electric car
is that driving range can be significantly impacted by extreme temperatures.
Charging in the hot sun is not only bad for your battery, but it’s also a drain on the power grid, as it will require more energy to charge your car in hot conditions. This is because in order to keep the battery from overheating, your car will automatically have to use the thermal management system to cool the battery at the same time it charges, making your charging time longer.
A few things you can do are:
  • Avoid peak heat times and charge in the early mornings or late evenings when temperatures are cooler.
  • Charge in the shade.
  • Request that the owner of the charging station install an awning or enclosure.
  • Use a heat reflective car cover or windshield sun shade.
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