Electric cars: 5 questions you (probably) never asked yourself

Electric cars are becoming increasingly popular, but beyond the common questions about range and charging, there are many lesser-known aspects that deserve attention.

In this article, we will answer five less obvious questions about electric mobility.

1. Are all electric cars the same?

No, there are significant differences between models in terms of powertrain, software, construction materials, and batteries.

Powertrains and drivetrain

Electric cars can have one or more motors, with different configurations:

• Front-wheel drive: power is delivered to the front wheels.

• Rear-wheel drive: as in the Tesla Model 3 Standard Range.

• All-wheel drive: with two or more motors, ensuring better traction and performance, like the Tesla Model 3 Long Range (also available with rear-wheel drive).

Software and energy management

Software optimizes performance and range. Tesla offers over-the-air updates, constantly improving functionalities, while other models have less advanced systems, affecting efficiency.

Materials and build quality

Some manufacturers use aluminum or carbon fiber to reduce weight and improve range, while others opt for more traditional materials, impacting mileage.

Battery differences

The most common batteries are lithium-ion, but new technologies like solid-state batteries promise greater longevity. Capacity affects range:

• 20-30 kWh → approx. 200 km

• 70-80 kWh → up to 450 km

Cold weather can reduce performance, but some models feature thermal management systems to minimize range loss.

2. Do electric cars behave differently in the mountains?

One of the lesser-discussed aspects is how electric cars perform on mountain roads.

Uphill: higher energy consumption

Climbing requires more energy than driving on flat roads. However, thanks to the instant torque of electric motors, performance remains high, ensuring smooth driving without the need for gear changes, unlike internal combustion engines.

Downhill: energy recovery

When descending, the regenerative braking system converts kinetic energy into electricity, partially recharging the battery. This helps offset the energy used for climbing and, on long stretches, can even increase range.

Effects of cold weather on the battery

Cold temperatures reduce the efficiency of lithium-ion batteries, leading to a 20%-30% loss in range. Cold slows down chemical reactions, affecting charge capacity and increasing charging times. To counteract this, many models feature thermal management systems that keep the battery at an optimal temperature.

Tips for driving in the mountains

• Plan your route: check for charging stations along the way.

• Optimize battery use: preheat the cabin while the car is plugged in and use localized heating systems.

• Drive efficiently: avoid sudden accelerations and hard braking to maximize range.

3. Can I charge an electric car when it’s raining or snowing?

A common concern is the safety of charging in bad weather.

Safety and electrical insulation

Charging stations and cables are designed to be completely safe, even in rain or snow. The connectors have protective seals that prevent water infiltration, and safety systems automatically cut off power in case of anomalies.

Risk of electric shock?

There is no risk of electric shock when charging in the rain because the plugs and cables are engineered to prevent current leakage.

4. What happens if I run out of battery while driving?

Running out of power while driving an electric car can be worrying, but thanks to modern technologies and assistance services, the situation can be managed calmly.

Warning systems and range optimization

Electric vehicles have advanced systems that constantly monitor battery levels. When range drops below a critical threshold, the driver receives dashboard alerts and suggestions for nearby charging stations.

To save energy, the system may reduce or disable non-essential functions like air conditioning and the audio system, while also limiting motor power to optimize the remaining range.

What to do if the battery is completely dead

If the battery is fully depleted, the car will stop, just like a combustion vehicle running out of fuel. In this case:

• Roadside assistance: many companies offer emergency charging, such as the E-Gap service in cities like Milan and Rome, which uses vans equipped to provide enough energy to reach a charging station.

• Towing and transport: if mobile charging is unavailable, the car must be transported on a flatbed tow truck. Traditional towing is discouraged, as it could damage the propulsion system due to forced energy recovery.

How to prevent battery drain

To avoid running out of charge:

• Monitor range and plan charging stops based on your route.

• Use dedicated apps to locate charging stations in advance.

• Perform regular battery system checks to ensure optimal performance.

5. Can electric cars tow trailers or caravans?

Many wonder if an electric car can tow a trailer or caravan, just like a combustion vehicle.

Towing capacity of electric cars

Not all electric cars are designed for towing, but some models offer impressive capabilities for carrying substantial loads. Among the most capable are:

• Tesla Model X: up to 2,250 kg

• Hyundai Ioniq 5: up to 1,600 kg

• Kia EV6: up to 1,600 kg

• Polestar 2: up to 1,500 kg

It’s always advisable to check the manufacturer's technical specifications for the exact towing limit of the chosen model.

Impact on range

Towing a trailer increases energy consumption, reducing overall range. The impact depends on:

• Trailer weight

• Aerodynamics, which can create more air resistance

• Driving conditions, such as inclines, temperature, and speed

According to ADAC tests, towing a caravan can double energy consumption (+103%), significantly affecting performance.

Driver assistance systems for towing

Some electric cars feature specific functions to ensure greater safety and stability:

• "Trailer mode": optimizes power management and adjusts regenerative braking to improve stability.

• Electronic stability control: helps keep the vehicle on track if the trailer sways.

• Tire pressure monitoring: ensures that the tires maintain the correct pressure for safe driving.

Electric cars offer many advantages, but there are still numerous interesting and lesser-known aspects worth exploring. As electric mobility continues to evolve, providing increasingly advanced and versatile solutions, with proper planning and the right knowledge, driving an electric car is becoming more practical and accessible than ever.