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Driving in extreme weather can be difficult, but if you own a Tesla, there are many important points to remember to remain safe. Understanding how your Tesla operates in these circumstances is vital, whether you are dealing with strong winds, heavy rain, or perhaps a hurricane. Here is what you need to know—plus some fast advice for storm-safe driving.
Preparing Your Tesla for a Storm
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Precondition your Tesla vehicle before driving in inclement weather to ensure a comfortable driving experience.
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Use the Tesla app to schedule a charging session and maximize available energy for driving.
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Check your vehicle’s tire pressure and consider adding air to maintain good traction and lower rolling resistance.
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Clear any snow or debris from your vehicle’s exterior surfaces to reduce drag and improve driving efficiency.
Charging and Range Considerations
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Understand how cold weather affects your Tesla vehicle’s energy consumption and range.
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Use the Energy app to track your vehicle’s real-time and projected energy usage.
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Take advantage of free Supercharging during natural disasters, if available.
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Consider charging your vehicle at home before a storm to eliminate the need for fuel.
Safe Driving Practices
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Reduce your speed and increase your following distance in inclement weather.
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Use low gear when driving uphill in snowy or icy conditions.
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Avoid sudden acceleration and hard braking.
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Keep a safe distance from other vehicles and be aware of your surroundings.
Rain-Related Tesla Regenerative Braking
While it can seem more forceful in rainy weather, regenerative braking does help to increase efficiency. Be aware of slick roads since regenerative braking could result minor wheel slide should you quickly release the accelerator. Gradual pedal release helps to preserve traction.
Storm Handling of Tesla Model 3 & Model Y
Thanks to the battery arrangement, both the Tesla Model 3's storm handling and the Tesla Model Y's wet road performance gain from their low center of gravity. In strong gusts and severe rain, this increases stability. But to avoid loss of control, always lower speed and steer clear of abrupt maneuvers.
Driving a Tesla during a hurricane
Safety comes first if your Tesla is operating in a hurricane. Strong gusts can impair steering; any car would find flooding quite hazardous. Though deep water might still be hazardous, Tesla's battery is enclosed. Stay off flooded highways since water incursion harms electrical parts.
Performance of Tesla Windshield Wipers
Tesla's automatic wipers use artificial intelligence to change speed depending on rain severity. Although usually successful, some drivers claim slowed reactions in unexpected downpours. For best visibility, you may need to manually change the wiper speed.
Heavy Rain Tesla Road Grip
In heavy weather, the Tesla road grip relies on tyre condition. Traction is enhanced by all-season or rain-specific tyres. Make sure your tyres have enough tread depth to prevent hydroplaning.
Storm Preparedness for Electric Vehicles
Always charge your Tesla before severe weather for electric vehicle storm readiness. Charging stations can be impacted by power outages, so try for at least an 80% charge before a storm.
Power Loss of Tesla amid Storms
Though uncommon, water or electrical problems can cause Tesla power loss in storms. Though you may lose power, use the car's energy wisely and look for shelter if required; Tesla's battery has several fail-safes.
Winter Driving Tips for Your Tesla
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Learn how to use your Tesla’s climate control system to maintain a comfortable cabin temperature.
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Use the Tesla app to adjust your vehicle’s climate control settings remotely.
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Consider using winter tires for improved traction and control.
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Keep your windshield washer fluid rated for cold temperatures.
Hurricane Planning and Evacuation for New Tesla Owners
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Develop a plan for both staying and evacuating during a hurricane, considering the storm’s severity and your personal safety.
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If ordered to evacuate, follow the instructions for safety reasons.
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Consider alternative transportation options, such as a gas car, in case of an emergency.
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Take advantage of Tesla’s Supercharger network for charging during an evacuation.
Model-Specific Features to Keep in Mind
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Familiarize yourself with your Tesla vehicle’s features, such as the charge port heater and wiper defrosters.
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Understand how to use your vehicle’s automatic windshield wipers and adjust their sensitivity.
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Learn how to activate your vehicle’s emergency lights and hazard lights.
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Keep your vehicle’s software up to date to ensure you have the latest features and improvements.
Storm Driving a Tesla: Quick Advice
On wet roads, slow down to keep control.
Allow for greater stopping distances by increasing the following distance.
Avoid deep puddles to stop hydroplaning or water damage.
Use Autopilot carefully; strong rain might affect sensors.
For improved traction, maintain correct tire inflation.
Additional Tips for Driving in Extreme Weather
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Keep a winter driving kit in your vehicle, including items such as a blanket, flashlight, and first aid kit.
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Consider investing in a portable charger for your Tesla vehicle.
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Keep your vehicle’s gas tank full, if applicable.
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Stay informed about weather conditions and road closures.
Final Checklist for Driving Your Tesla in a Storm
Driving a Tesla in a storm isn’t a big deal, as with other EVs, thanks to its low center of gravity and robust design. However, several factors like flooded roads, high winds, and power outages still pose risks.
Check your vehicle’s tire pressure and tread depth. Ensure your electric car’s windshield washer fluid is rated for cold temperatures. Keep a winter driving kit in your vehicle. Familiarize yourself with your vehicle’s features and settings. Stay informed about weather conditions and road closures.
Though driver attentiveness is important, Teslas are well-suited for stormy situations. You can safely negotiate severe weather by knowing how your Tesla reacts to flooding, wind, and rain. If evacuating, ensure your house is secure and your Tesla is charged for a safer journey. Stay prepared and drive cautiously!
