If you’re new to driving an electric vehicle, you’ve probably heard the term “preconditioning” come up here and there—maybe in a group chat, at a charging event like EVs & Dogs, or even while scrolling through your vehicle settings. But what exactly does it mean? And should you be doing it?

Let’s break it down.

What Does It Mean to Precondition Your EV Battery?

Preconditioning your EV battery means warming it up (or sometimes cooling it down) to an optimal temperature before you start driving or begin fast charging. Unlike gas-powered cars, EVs perform best—and charge faster—when the battery is in the right temperature range.

So, think of preconditioning as helping your EV “get in the zone.”

Why Preconditioning Matters

Your battery likes to stay comfortable. If it’s too cold or too hot, you’ll notice:

Slower charging speeds, especially at fast chargers
Reduced driving range
Longer time to reach your destination, if you’re depending on a quick top-off

By preconditioning, you can improve:

Charging efficiency: Less time plugged in
Battery longevity: Helping your battery last longer over time
Driving performance: A smoother and more responsive ride

How to Precondition Your Battery

There are a few simple ways to precondition, depending on your EV make and model:

1) Use Your EV’s Navigation to a Charger

Most modern EVs (like Tesla, Lucid, Rivian, etc.) will begin preconditioning the battery when you input a fast charging location into the vehicle’s native navigation system. It’s automatic—just set the route and the car does the rest.

2) Schedule Departure or Charging Times

Many EVs let you schedule a departure time via their mobile app. This helps the vehicle warm up both the cabin and the battery in time for your commute, using power from the grid instead of the battery itself.

3) Manual Climate and Charging Controls

Some apps let you manually start climate control or charging to help warm the system. While not always as efficient, it’s a handy workaround.

Tips for First-Time EV Owners

Before fast charging: Always use your nav system to route to the charger—even if you know the way. That triggers preconditioning.
In cold weather: Preconditioning is even more important. Batteries don’t like the cold, and your range can drop if you skip it.
While plugged in at home: Precondition while connected to preserve battery charge.

Our Two-Cents

Preconditioning your EV battery might sound technical, but it’s really just another part of getting the most out of your car. It can make your drives smoother, your charging faster, and your battery healthier in the long run.

We’re here to help you feel confident behind the wheel—no matter where you are in your EV journey.

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Until next time, keep charging ahead! ⚡️🚗

Disclaimer: The information provided here aims to introduce different types of EV chargers in a simplified manner. Individual preferences and requirements may vary; consider consulting with professionals for specific guidance on selecting the right charger for your EV.

The Story about Pre-Conditioning Before Your Charge