What are the effects of running the air conditioning while parked in an electric vehicle?
2 Answers
Since electric vehicles do not emit exhaust, running the air conditioning while parked has no impact on the health of the occupants inside the car. However, it does consume battery power, which can affect the driving range. Below is a detailed introduction to electric vehicles: Concept: A Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) refers to a vehicle powered by an on-board power source, using an electric motor to drive the wheels, and meeting all requirements of road traffic and safety regulations. It operates using electricity stored in the battery. Depending on the vehicle, 12 or 24 batteries may be used to power the car, and sometimes more. Types: The main types of electric vehicles are Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV), Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV), and Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEV). Power Source: Provides electrical energy to the drive motor of the electric vehicle, which converts the electrical energy into mechanical energy. The most widely used power source is the lead-acid battery. However, with advancements in electric vehicle technology, lead-acid batteries are gradually being replaced by other types due to their low energy density, slow charging speed, and short lifespan. Emerging power sources currently under development include sodium-sulfur batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, lithium batteries, fuel cells, and other new types of power sources.
I've been driving an electric car for a while now, and it's incredibly convenient to run the AC while parked, especially during summer when waiting at traffic lights or taking short breaks by the roadside. There's no risk of exhaust poisoning since EVs don't have engine emissions. However, you do need to watch the battery drain—keeping the AC on for half an hour while parked can reduce your range by 10-15 km. I usually monitor the battery level via an app to avoid scrambling for a charger when the battery is nearly empty. When temperatures soar, the AC fan runs at full blast, consuming even more power, and prolonged use like this can lead to deep battery discharge and faster aging. I recommend adjusting the fan speed based on the weather and using recirculation mode to save some energy. Overall, the safety and comfort of EVs are major advantages, but don’t overuse the AC to the point where it affects your drive home.