Harmattan is here again—those dry, chilly mornings, dusty winds, and cooler-than-usual nights are back. While we bundle up in sweaters and enjoy the cold, some electric vehicle owners (and skeptics) have questions about how harmattan weather affects EV performance.
Let’s clear the air: your EV is built to handle Nigeria’s unique climate, including harmattan. However, like with any vehicle, understanding your EV’s range in this season is key to maximizing its performance.
The Myth: Your EV engine will knock during harmattan season
This is a popular misconception. First of all, electric cars don’t have engines. Second, It’s true that colder temperatures can impact battery efficiency, as batteries work best in moderate climates. However, the temperature in Nigeria during harmattan rarely drops low enough to cause drastic issues. The slight range reduction EV owners might experience during harmattan is usually due to the battery doing more work because of the cold weather or because of the slightly thicker air resistance.
The Reality: EVs lose only a small percentage of their range in harmattan, and this can easily be managed with proper care and smart driving habits.
Now that we have gotten the myth and reality out of the way, let’s proceed to learning the facts in more detail.
The Actual Truth About How Harmattan Can Affect Your EV’s Battery
Harmattan introduces two main challenges for EVs.
1. Temperature Sensitivity
EV batteries prefer to stay within an optimal temperature range. Harmattan mornings, with temperatures dropping below 20°C, can slightly reduce the battery’s chemical efficiency, leading to less energy output.
2. Increased Heating Needs
Harmattan mornings can be chilly, so using your car’s heating system might draw extra power from the battery.
But the good news is that these factors are manageable with simple adjustments. This brings us to our next section.
Tips to Maximize Your EV Range During Harmattan
Here are practical ways to keep your EV running smoothly:
Don’t Skip Warm-Up Time
Before driving, let your EV warm up while still connected to the charger. This pre-conditioning helps the battery and cabin reach optimal temperature without eating into your range.
Park in a Shelter
When possible, park your EV in a covered or enclosed space to shield it from Harmattan’s chilly winds and dust. This keeps the battery slightly warmer and reduces the need for heating systems. When the battery stays warm, it won’t need as much energy to heat things up when you start driving.
Charge Strategically
The recommendation is to maintain your battery’s charge between 20% and 80%. Harmattan or not, this is a golden rule to preserve battery health. For long journeys, top up to 100% just before leaving.
Use Eco-Driving Techniques
Drive at moderate speeds and use regenerative braking to maximize range. Avoid hard accelerations, which drain the battery faster.
Minimize Cabin Heating
Instead of relying entirely on the heating system, use heated seats (if available) or layer up with harmattan-friendly sweaters. Heating less means more battery for the journey.
Keep Your Tires in Check
Harmattan brings cooler temperatures, which can cause tires to lose pressure. Low-pressure tires increase drag and drain the battery faster. Regularly check and maintain the recommended tire pressure.
Dust-Proof Your EV
We all know that dust and electronics don’t go hand-in-hand. Harmattan’s dry, dusty winds can clog filters and reduce electric vehicle efficiency. Regularly clean your air filters and ensure the vents are clear to maintain optimal cabin airflow.
Plan Your Routes Wisely
The Harmattan season often brings reduced visibility due to dust haze. Plan your trips to avoid heavy traffic, which consumes more energy in stop-and-go conditions.
Why EVs Are Still Perfect for You During Harmattan
EVs are inherently efficient and adaptable to different conditions, and Nigeria’s harmattan is no exception. Unlike internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, EVs don’t rely on cold-sensitive liquids like engine oil, so they’re easier to start and warm up during cooler weather. Plus, EV owners save on fuel costs no matter the season.
So, there you have it. Harmattan doesn’t have to be a roadblock to enjoying your EV. With these tips, you can drive confidently and maximize your range, all while busting myths about EV performance during this season.
At Possible EVS, we’re passionate about educating Nigerians on how EVs can transform transportation, one season at a time. Ready to switch to sustainable driving? Visit our EV experience center or contact us to learn more!
