Ioniq 5 in the Desert
The Hyundai IONIQ 5 all-electric crossover has been declared the “2022 World Car of the year” , three new awards at the New York International Auto Show.
Here is a very detailed road trip report from reddit a road trip to Los Angeles and Joshua Tree National Park, detailing how Ioniq 5 Long Range RWD performed in the desert.
Few things noted by the driver:
- Higher temperatures seem to adversely affect Ioniq5’s fast charging rate. The optimal temperature seems to be 65-80 degrees F
- When driving at higher freeway speeds (80mph+) the range is about 70% of advertised range. This is understandable, as the ‘optimal’ driving speed for most EVs is 60-70mph to prolong the range.
- “Drive Assist” feature was very helpful in long road trips
Driving an EV in the desert will typically pose three types of risks
- Dust particles damaging Electronics
- High temperatures, unsuitable for Battery and few electronic controllers. High risk
- Non availability of charging stations
Extreme climatic conditions can have a number of negative impacts on your EV, it is shown that the driving range decreases by 17%. Traveling through the desert you should gear up for both the extreme weather conditions, the nights can be cold and windy, outside temperature during the day can be 90 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.
Read more to find very important lessons to consider while driving in the desert.