One of the challenges of living in the Metroplex is the occasional cold snap we experience every year. While we think we can handle anything throughout the year, we sometimes find ourselves in very interesting situations. As we transition to electric vehicles, we have to remind ourselves that the operational nuances they provide are especially important when the temperatures drop to near freezing and the roads become icy. Here are a few things to consider for your VinFast VF8 and VF9 when it gets cold outside.
When you are not driving your EV, simply park your vehicle in a garage. If you happen to have an at-home charging unit, go ahead and plug it in. That way, your vehicle will be fully charged the next time you have to venture out in the cold.
Before you venture out, you definitely want to remove all snow and ice from your vehicle. A handy snow brush and ice scraper are all you need for the body and glass. You also want to clear the wheel wells of accumulated snow and ice with an ice scraper or a rubber mallet. Just be careful when you do it to avoid fender and wheel-well damage.
Another thing to check is the tire pressure. Inside the driver’s door sill is a sticker showing the recommended pressures for your VF8 and VF9 tires. If your tire gauge shows the pressures are higher or lower, adjust them accordingly. It is probably best that you do so before driving away from home, so you do not get caught with a tire pressure warning indicator on the center touchscreen display. If that indicator comes on, drive a bit to warm up the tires. If it is still on, get air in those tires at your soonest opportunity.
While you’re out on the road, keep in mind that once you turn on the heater and heated seats, you may be sapping energy from the electrical system. This could reduce the overall range of your vehicle. Simply reduce the heat from your climate control system and heated seats to avoid needing to recharge sooner than anticipated.
You can automatically precondition your vehicle’s battery in the VinFast VF8 and VF9 when you use the built-in navigation system on the center touchscreen by directing it to the nearest DC fast charging station. That enables the VF8 and VF9’s thermal management system to begin heating the battery. It can also be preconditioned during your charging session; however, it is best to start the preconditioning process 20-30 minutes before your charging session.
Getting through the winter in your VinFast VF8 and VF9 will help extend your vehicle’s lifespan and enhance your ownership experience. It will also give you the confidence you need to get through any cold snap North Texas throws at you every year. If you have any questions, please contact Ewing VinFast of Plano, and we will be able to assist you.