What does 'heat' mean in new energy vehicles?
3 Answers
heat refers to heating. In vehicles, this switch is used for defogging. When the switch is turned on, the exterior rearview mirrors and rear windshield will be heated, primarily to prevent frost formation, defrost, or defog, making it easier for the driver to observe the outside conditions. Below is a detailed introduction to new energy vehicles: 1. Overview: New energy vehicles refer to vehicles that use unconventional vehicle fuels as power sources (or use conventional vehicle fuels with new onboard power devices), integrating advanced technologies in vehicle power control and driving, resulting in vehicles with advanced technical principles, new technologies, and new structures. 2. Others: New energy vehicles include pure electric vehicles, range-extended electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, hydrogen engine vehicles, etc. Pure electric vehicles are vehicles that use a single battery as the energy storage power source.
In new energy vehicles, the term 'heat' mainly refers to thermal management. Think about it, core components like batteries and motors generate heat during operation, which needs to be controlled within an appropriate temperature range, ideally between 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. If the battery temperature is too high, it may catch fire or degrade; if it's too low, it won't charge fully, affecting the range. The vehicle is equipped with a heat pump or PTC heater to warm the battery or provide cabin heating. Using the heater in winter consumes a lot of electricity, and I found that driving an electric vehicle is more energy-intensive than a traditional car. Therefore, thermal management is no small matter—it's key to ensuring safety, extending component lifespan, and improving efficiency. It's best to learn some energy-saving tips, such as preheating before parking to reduce startup consumption, using seat heating instead of air conditioning, and regularly checking the cooling system to keep it unobstructed.
When it comes to the heat in new energy vehicles, I have to talk about the driving experience. As someone who drives an electric car to work every day, the most troublesome issue in winter is the heating. Without waste heat from the engine, it relies entirely on the electric heating system, which causes the battery level to drop rapidly after a short while. Thermal management is about keeping the battery at a comfortable temperature to prevent frost or overheating, thereby extending its lifespan. My car has a heat pump heating system, which is much more energy-efficient than the old PTC heaters. I usually drive in eco mode and try to save power by wearing gloves instead of turning on the heater. Heat also involves safety—once the system overheats, it will sound an alarm, and you need to address it promptly. So, heat isn’t just about comfort; it’s the foundation for the vehicle’s healthy operation. Don’t underestimate it.
