How Much Temperature Difference Between Black and White Cars in Summer?

[TuckerMarie]

In summer, black cars are 5-15 degrees Celsius hotter than white cars. Factors affecting the interior temperature include the car's color and material, interior color, and outdoor temperature. Car color and material: Under direct sunlight, the temperature difference between different colored panels can exceed 20 degrees Celsius. White cars reflect sunlight, with a metal temperature difference of up to 25 degrees Celsius compared to black car panels. White car paint has a lower temperature, while black car paint has a higher temperature. This means darker-colored cars absorb more heat, while lighter-colored cars absorb less. Therefore, when black and white cars are parked for the same duration, the white car's temperature will be lower than the black car's. Interior color: Under the same conditions, white interiors are about 7 degrees Celsius cooler than black interiors. Theoretically, color spectrum theory indicates that lighter colors absorb less heat, while darker colors absorb more. The impact of white car interiors on cabin temperature is smaller compared to black car interiors. Outdoor temperature: In summer, outdoor temperatures in most regions can reach around 40 degrees Celsius. When a car is exposed to the sun for a long time in such high temperatures, the interior temperature can exceed 70 degrees Celsius, with a maximum of up to 90 degrees Celsius.

[Melody]

There's a noticeable temperature difference between black and white cars in summer. Last time I tested, a black car left in the sun for two hours had a scorching surface temperature of about 60°C, while a white car only reached just over 40°C - a difference of around 20 degrees. Inside the car is even more dramatic - the black car feels like an oven with seats hot enough to burn, requiring prolonged AC use to cool down. The white car remains much more temperate and practical. This temperature difference isn't just about comfort - it affects paint aging and battery life too, especially in southern heat. When parking outside, light-colored cars are preferable. Using a car cover helps, but color selection is key to reducing heat absorption and protecting your vehicle.

[StIsabela]

After decades of driving, it's common for dark-colored cars to be 10 to 15 degrees Celsius hotter than light-colored ones in summer. Black cars absorb heat easily outdoors, with surface temperatures rising rapidly—sometimes exceeding white cars by 20 degrees. The interior air heats up as well, leading to slower AC startup, higher fuel consumption, and poor cooling performance. White cars have much smaller temperature differences, offering comfort and peace of mind. When parking, avoid direct sunlight or use sunshades to cool down; if traveling with children, light-colored cars are safer to prevent heatstroke risks. Long-term temperature differences also affect tire pressure stability, requiring regular checks and maintenance.

[GabrielaLynn]

From a scientific perspective on car color and heat absorption, dark colors like black cars absorb more sunlight, while light colors like white cars reflect more. Under summer sunlight, the surface temperature of a black car often reaches 70 degrees Celsius, while a white car is around 50 degrees, a difference of about 20 degrees Celsius. This temperature difference leads to faster heat conduction, causing a surge of hot air inside the car and reducing air conditioning efficiency. White cars can save some energy and reduce the burden; parking in the shade or using reflective car covers outdoors can control the temperature difference within 10 degrees, protecting internal components such as electronic systems from overheating.