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Chevy Electric Vehicles Cold Weather Tips Guide

Winter can be tough on any vehicle, but Chevy Electric Vehicles are equipped with advanced technology to keep you comfortable and ensure efficient performance in the cold months. Whether you're commuting or road-tripping, here's how to make the most of the Chevy EV's features during winter.

Tech Features to Keep You Warm and Efficient

Preconditioning the Cabin / Always Be Charging

Start the day in comfort by using the preconditioning feature. While your EV is plugged in overnight, you can schedule the cabin to heat up to your desired temperature, using grid power instead of the battery. Here's how:

  1. Select the Charging App in the vehicle's infotainment center. Select the Charge Later option.
  2. Click on Setting Icon, then on Preconditioning Temperature which allows you to set your desire cabin temperature.
  3. Next, select the Schedule icon and choose Create Schedule.
  4. If no Home Charge Location is set, you will be prompted to create one.
  5. In the Charge Schedule screen, select the days for which you would like to create a charging schedule. Drag each value up or down to select the desired charge level and the time for charging to be completed. Then select the Preconditioning toggle to On.
  6. Save and close the Charging Schedule. Now your vehicle will complete the charging and preconditioning as scheduled, as long of the vehicle is plugged in.

Heat Pump: Efficient Heating

Chevy EV's heat pump captures heat from multiple sources like regenerative braking and even passengers' breath and turns it into usable energy. The energy is then redistributed to where it's needed like to warm up the cabin or maintain battery temperature. This energy-efficient system saves power while keeping you comfortable.

Remote Start: Warm Up Before You Go

Activate Remote Start to warm the cabin before you drive, using grid power when plugged in. This feature lets you warm up the interior without draining the battery. For the best results, use Remote Start for around 20 minutes.

Energy Assist: Smart Route Planning

On longer trips, the Energy Assist function in the MyChevrolet App can guide you to charging stations, adjusting based on weather and the vehicle's charge. This ensures you're always prepared for the journey ahead.

Eco Climate: Optimize Comfort and Efficiency

Eco Climate adjusts airflow to optimize heating and cooling based on the number of passengers and where they are sitting. This efficient system ensures comfort without wasting energy, preserving range

DC Fast Charge (Battery Prep)

To get the most out of DC Fast Charging stations, use Battery Prep. This feature ensures that the battery is at the optimal temperature for fast charging, reducing charging time. Activate it through the Charging app to prepare the vehicle for a quicker charge.

Heated Features: Stay Warm Efficiently

Heated Wipers

In temperatures below 44.6°F, heated wipers automatically activate, warming up the wiper blades and clearing snow or ice faster, giving you better visibility in winter conditions.

Heated Seats and Steering Wheel

Heated seats and steering wheels are perfect for quickly warming up the areas you need most. By heating only, the seat and steering wheel, you preserve battery life while staying comfortable.

Routine Winter Maintenance

  • Tire Pressure - Cold weather causes tire pressure to drop, so check the pressure in all tires regularly. Properly inflated tires improve range, safety, and efficiency. Be sure to check tire pressure in the morning when tires are cold.
  • Snow Tires - If you drive in heavy snow or icy conditions, snow tires provide better traction and safer driving on slick roads. Consider swapping your tires to ensure optimal performance in winter.
  • Clear Windows and Sensors - To maintain range and ensure functionality of safety features, keep your windows clean and free of frost. Dirty windows require more energy to defog, while sensors and cameras should also be cleared of snow or debris for optimal operation.
  • Home Charger Care - Clear any snow or ice from your home charger to ensure a solid connection and prevent charging interruptions.

Additional Winter Prep Tips

  • Park in a Garage: When possible, park in a garage to reduce the amount of energy needed to heat the vehicle, extending range.
  • Drive on Flat Terrain: Avoid hilly routes when possible, as flat terrain allows for more efficient driving and better range.
  • Mindful Driving: Drive smoothly and avoid aggressive acceleration or braking. This preserves range and reduces energy consumption. Use the efficiency gauge to help monitor your driving habits.
  • Ice Scraper: Always keep an ice scraper in your car for quickly clearing snow and ice, especially when you're on the go.
  • Bundle Up: Wear layers to keep yourself warm. Lowering the cabin temperature slightly and dressing warmly helps preserve range while staying comfortable.

Chevy EVs are equipped with advanced features that make winter driving more efficient and comfortable. From preconditioning the cabin to the heat pump and energy-efficient heating systems, these tools are designed to help you stay warm without sacrificing range. By following these winter tips and leveraging EV's tech, you'll have a smooth, efficient driving experience all season long.

Ready to take on winter with a Chevy EV? Visit Boyd's OBX Chevrolet today and explore our range of electric vehicles, built to perform in any season!

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