Services
Insurance
Loans
Repairs
Advice
About

Will my electric car overheat?

I recently bought a new car, and it’s electric! I know an internal combustion engine can overheat and so they need cooling systems. Can my electric car overheat?

avatar
Marlee John · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Congrats on your purchase! Yes, similar to internal combustion engine vehicles, electric motors can and do overheat.
Though
electric cars
use a different energy source, the motor still expels a significant amount of energy a byproduct of which is heat. In internal combustion engine vehicles, there is a temperature regulation system using oil and coolant to ensure that the engine continues to operate smoothly.
Electric cars contain a battery-powered motor and a thermal system to regulate the temperature. Both a coolant tube that surrounds the battery and the heat pump draws the heat away from the battery.
EV batteries operate best within a temperature range of 59 to 95° degrees Fahrenheit (15-35° Celsius). In extremely cold temperatures driving range is reduced, but in extremely hot temperatures the risk of overheating is significantly increased.
Another common cause of heat damage is rapid charging.
Rapid charging
is quick and convenient, but it runs a lot of charge through the battery and hence, puts a lot of stress on the EV battery. Occasional use should be okay, but frequent use can affect the battery life in the long run.
Overheating can significantly damage any car, but especially electric cars. Try your best to store your car in cool and shaded areas and avoid rapid charging. Always adhere to any warnings your car may give you before or while driving.
Hope this helps!
With any vehicle, you’ll need
car insurance
. Let
Jerry
, help you find the best insurance policy at the best rates.
View full answer 
WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

Join 4M+ members in lowering their car insurance

Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance

√
No long forms
√
No spam or unwanted phone calls
√
Quotes from top insurance companies
Find insurance savings