Tough temperatures? No problem. Nissan Ariya SUV is even tougher.
Michigan winters can be harsh, but conditions inside a special chamber at Nissan’s Technical Center North America (NTCNA) near Detroit are even more brutal. Engineers at the facility test vehicles in temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure performance in the most extreme conditions.
Recently, Nissan tested its all-electric Nissan Ariya SUV in these sub-zero environments to confirm it could handle even the coldest days. One test, called a “cold soak,” parked an Ariya with a 17% battery charge in -4°F for 24 hours without plugging it in or activating its battery heater. When engineers returned, the vehicle retained its 17% charge and started immediately.
Extreme cold impacts battery performance in electric vehicles (EVs). Low temperatures can reduce a battery’s ability to retain charge and make it harder to start the vehicle. For drivers, this can mean longer charging times and shorter range during winter months.
To combat these issues, Nissan equips the Ariya with advanced thermal management systems. In cold conditions, the Ariya’s battery heater ensures the battery stays at an optimal temperature. Drivers can activate this feature in advance using the MyNISSAN app, which also allows users to warm the cabin, monitor interior temperatures, and set charging schedules remotely.
At NTCNA, engineers test vehicles like the Ariya in conditions far more extreme than what most drivers will experience. “We want to test the worst-case scenario so that our customers will still get the same performance in a wide variety of weather conditions,” explained Jeff Tessmer, senior manager of Zero Emission Vehicles at Nissan.
Testing involves exposing the Ariya to temperatures ranging from -40°F to 176°F, ensuring that the vehicle performs reliably in extreme cold, scorching heat, and everything in between. Components like the battery and cooling systems undergo rigorous validation to ensure durability before production begins.
The Nissan Ariya includes several systems tailored to handle cold climates. One is the Thermal Management System. The liquid-cooled system keeps the battery at an optimal temperature, whether in freezing or sweltering conditions.
Finally, e-4ORCE All-Wheel Drive provides stability and traction on icy or snow-covered roads. These features, combined with Nissan’s years of EV expertise, make the Ariya a reliable choice for drivers in cold climates.
Unlike traditional gas-powered vehicles, the Ariya’s cabin heats up much faster because it doesn’t rely on an engine for warmth. Additionally, its all-wheel drive system ensures better handling on slippery roads.
In comparison to other EVs, Nissan Ariya’s advanced thermal management and remote control features set it apart. While some EVs struggle with maintaining range in winter, the Ariya’s systems help preserve battery performance even in freezing temperatures.
Electric vehicles like the Ariya offer significant environmental benefits, even during winter. Unlike gas-powered cars, which emit harmful pollutants as they warm up, EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions. By choosing an EV cold weather battery, drivers can contribute to cleaner air and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
Nissan’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond individual vehicles. The company’s investment in EV technology aligns with global efforts to combat climate change, making the Ariya not just practical but also environmentally responsible.
As battery technology advances, EV cold weather battery performance is expected to improve further. Nissan is already exploring next-generation materials and designs to enhance efficiency and range in freezing conditions. These innovations will make EVs even more practical for everyday drivers, regardless of location.
For now, the Nissan Ariya represents a significant leap forward, combining cutting-edge technology with decades of experience in EV development. By choosing an EV like the Nissan Ariya, drivers can reduce their environmental impact without sacrificing performance or convenience, even in winter.
