Running the air conditioner (AC) in an electric vehicle (EV) does have an impact on its range, but the exact extent of the reduction depends on various factors. In general, using the AC in an EV can decrease its range quicker compared to driving without it. Here's why:
Energy Consumption: The AC system in an EV requires energy to cool the cabin, which is typically drawn from the vehicle's battery. Cooling the air inside the cabin requires energy to run the compressor, fans, and other components. This energy consumption places an additional load on the battery, reducing the overall range of the vehicle.
Efficiency Loss: Converting electrical energy from the battery into cool air has some inherent losses due to the efficiency of the AC system. These losses contribute to a decrease in the overall efficiency of the vehicle, further impacting its range.
Temperature Differential: Electric vehicles generally have more sensitive ranges to temperature changes compared to internal combustion engine vehicles. Extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, can affect battery performance and efficiency. When using the AC, the system needs to cool the cabin air while potentially combating external heat, further impacting the battery's ability to maintain an optimal temperature range.
That being said, the extent of the range reduction due to using the AC will depend on factors such as the outside temperature, desired cabin temperature, AC usage settings, driving conditions, and the specific characteristics of the EV and its battery system. EV manufacturers often provide estimates of range reduction when using the AC, so consulting the vehicle's documentation or seeking real-world experiences from EV owners can provide more specific information for a particular model.
To maximize the range of an EV while using the AC, it is advisable to use energy-saving techniques like pre-cooling the cabin while the vehicle is still connected to a charging station or setting the AC to a higher temperature or using the fan mode instead of full cooling. Additionally, using seat ventilation or using solar reflective shades on windows can help reduce the need for excessive AC usage, thereby preserving the range of the vehicle.