Electric vehicle (EV) drivers are being urged to take extra precautions when it comes to charging, battery health, and overall performance in hot weather

10:13, Fri, May 29, 2026 Updated: 10:24, Fri, May 29, 2026

homeowner charging electric car on driveway

Handy rule to follow in summer for preserving the longevity of your EV battery (Image: Getty )

This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more

The UK continues to enjoy warm weather following a 30C heatwave, and with further hot spells expected throughout the summer, electric vehicle (EV) drivers are being urged to take additional precautions concerning charging, battery health, and overall performance. Extreme temperatures present multiple risks to EVs.

From diminished battery efficiency and reduced charging speeds to tyre pressure fluctuations and pressure on range performance, there are numerous concerns motorists need to be aware of. As EV batteries rely on lithium-ion technology, they function best between 20–25C.

Get motoring news and advice plus selected offers and competitions Invalid email

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy

When temperatures exceed this threshold, overheating can occur, particularly during long journeys or high-speed travel. This may result in reduced or even temporarily halted charging speeds as a protective measure.

With this in mind, the UK's Automobile Association (the AA) has issued practical guidance on how motorists can safeguard their vehicles during spells of extreme heat. The insurance broker states that certain driving practices can prolong an EV's battery life, reports the Mirror.

There is a general rule of thumb EV drivers are urged to follow when hot weather hits to preserve the longevity of the battery: park your car in the shade, especially while charging, such as on your driveway. The AA says: "Like all lithium-ion batteries, your electric vehicle (EV) battery will degrade over time. Despite this inevitability, it's better for the vehicle – and ultimately the environment – if the battery is preserved as best as possible."

Contemporary electric vehicles are equipped with advanced thermal management systems engineered to regulate battery temperature. Despite this, direct sunlight places additional heat stress on the vehicle, compelling it to draw on its own energy reserves to keep the battery cool.

The company warns that exposure to extreme heat and extreme cold can have a detrimental effect on numerous materials, including the EV's battery. It adds: "Extreme heat is best avoided in storage and in use. But in particular, it's better to keep the vehicle out of direct heat when parked.

A white compact crossover vehicle is parked on the side of the road, with a multi-story building featuring large windows in the

Parking and charging your car in the shade is helpful when the weather heats up (stock image) (Image: Getty)

"The battery's thermal management system will cause the batteries to be drained, as the system keeps the temperature down for optimum efficiency. For this reason, on hot days, it's advisable to park your EV in the shade. Alternatively, make sure it's plugged in, so you're using the grid rather than the battery.

"Equally, the thermal management system will attempt to keep the battery at a comfortable temperature during cold snaps. When it's especially cold, park it in a garage if you can, or keep it plugged in while not in use."

Vehicle manufacturer Kia echoes this sentiment on its website, stating: "Park in a shaded area – Parking in the shade will prevent the sun from heating up the car, especially if you're leaving it in one spot for a while."