Bad weather conditions are responsible for 1,292 injuries, including four fatalities, on UK roads each year, and failing to winter-proof your car could hit drivers in the pocket.
Limited visibility on its own can lead to fines of up to £1,000. But if your tyres are underinflated or don't meet the legal tread depth requirement, you could face a fine of £2,500 per tyre, potentially adding up to £11,000, not to mention penalty points and even the risk of losing your licence. While many people turn to social media for advice about their cars, it's vital to get professional guidance. To help electric car owners stay safe and avoid penalties this winter, carmaker Kia has shared some essential tips for getting your vehicle ready for the colder months.
Before setting off, warm up your car while it's still plugged in. This practice, known as preconditioning, ensures your battery works efficiently in cold weather and your cabin is warm from the start.
Many electric cars also have windscreen defrosting features, letting you start your journey with a clear view of the road ahead. Doing this while connected to a charger helps save range, as the energy used for heating doesn't drain your battery while driving.
Foggy windows can drastically reduce visibility, posing a significant hazard and breaching UK Highway Code rules. It's a driver's responsibility to ensure they have a clear view of the road and their surroundings at all times.
Failure to comply could result in fines up to £1,000, penalty points on your licence, or even suspension of your driving licence in severe cases. Using your car's heating and defrosting systems is key to keeping your windows clear and staying within the law.
Cold weather can lead to a decrease in tyre pressures, which subsequently reduces grip and increases stopping distances. Don't just wait for the tyre pressure warning light to come on: it's recommended to regularly check and inflate your car's tyres to the manufacturer's suggested levels to maintain safety and efficiency, especially important for EVs.
UK law requires a minimum tyre tread depth of 1.6mm. Driving a vehicle with tyres below this limit could result in fines up to £2,500 per tyre and three penalty points per tyre.
Having four illegal tyres could potentially lead to penalties totalling £10,000 and a driving ban. Furthermore, adequate tyre tread is crucial for maintaining grip on wet or icy roads.
Lower temperatures can adversely affect battery performance and range. Plan your charging stops strategically in advance and aim to keep your battery above 20% for consistent efficiency.
If possible, make use of rapid chargers during long journeys and consider charging your car overnight at home to ensure you start each trip with a full battery.
Drive smoothly.
Sudden acceleration and braking not only waste energy but also increase the risk of losing traction on icy or wet roads. By driving smoothly, you can save battery power and maintain control.
Anticipate traffic conditions and maintain a steady speed to reduce risk and improve efficiency.
Winter weather can be unpredictable, so it's sensible to have a seasonal kit in your car. This should include an ice scraper, a can of de-icer, a blanket, a warm coat, a phone charger, and charging cables.
These items could come in handy if you encounter delays or emergencies.
For more expert advice on keeping your electric car safe and efficient this winter, check out Kia's official winter driving guide.
