Getting into a car that’s just the right temperature is always a welcome comfort. Particularly on a hot summer’s day, or a freezing winter’s day.
Traditionally, petrol and diesel cars need to have their engines running to warm or cool the interior. And we’re all used to pulling out the ice scraper in winter to clear the windscreen.
However, electric vehicles (EVs) can perform a clever trick, known as pre-conditioning. It allows you to heat or cool your car’s interior without leaving the comfort of your home or office by using an app that connects you to your car. And there are other benefits, as we’ll explain.
What is pre-conditioning?
How does it work?
Which EVs have pre-conditioning?
Is it available on any other cars?
How does pre-conditioning affect driving range?
How does pre-conditioning affect battery life?
What is pre-conditioning?
Pre-conditioning allows you to remotely activate your car’s climate control to either cool or warm your car’s interior. Helping to make sure it’s at a comfortable temperature when you enter your vehicle. It also helps demist the windscreen and windows. This is particularly useful during the winter months. Allowing you to remain cozy inside while your car takes care of removing ice from the windows. Also, this technology warms up your EV’s batteries, which can positively affect their lifespan and your driving range.
How does it work?
Pre-conditioning uses the car’s batteries, or a direct supply of electricity if the EV is plugged in and charging. You simply select your desired temperature using the smartphone app that connects to your car, and the technology does the rest.
For added convenience, with most EVs you can also set it up through the car’s infotainment screen. This feature is especially useful if you want to schedule it for a specific time. It can be very straightforward. Particularly if you’re already familiar with using an app to check your EV’s range or charging status.
Which EVs have pre-conditioning?
Because they are battery-powered rather than relying on an engine that requires warming up, the majority of EVs available on the Motability Scheme offer pre-conditioning. This includes models such as the Kia Niro and Ford Explorer.
Is pre-conditioning available on any other cars?
Most cars that run on electricity will offer pre-conditioning. But you’ll also find this technology in some hybrid vehicles. And most of the plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV), such as the Kia Sportage PHEV and Toyota C-HR PHEV.
How does pre-conditioning affect driving range?
Pre-conditioning can also help extend the lifespan of your EV’s batteries. Which could mean you get a good range for longer.
How does pre-conditioning affect battery life?
Pre-conditioning can also help extend the lifespan of your EV’s batteries. Which could mean you get a good range for longer.
About the Scheme
If you receive a qualifying mobility allowance you can use it to lease a car, scooter, powered wheelchair, or Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) on the Motability Scheme.
The Scheme’s all-inclusive lease package is designed to give you value for money and peace of mind. Because, as well as having a brand-new vehicle of your choice, you also get insurance, breakdown cover, servicing and maintenance included in the price you pay
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