HOW DID I GET THE FULL 150KW CHARGE IN 19 DEGREE WEATHER? BATTERY PRECONDITIONING!

EV Channels Review

This video effectively demonstrates the critical impact of battery preconditioning on EV charging speeds during cold weather. The reviewer contrasts charging experiences at two different stations in 19-degree Fahrenheit conditions. Without preconditioning at IONNA, the Chevrolet Equinox EV achieved a slow average of 56kW, with the battery at 41 degrees Fahrenheit. In stark contrast, after activating the vehicle's fast charge prep feature on the way to the Kwik Charge station, the battery warmed to 71 degrees Fahrenheit, resulting in a significantly faster charge that peaked at 155kW. The reviewer highlights that while the car's navigation can initiate preconditioning, a manual button on the 2024 Equinox (and similar GM platforms) offers a direct method. The core message is clear: preconditioning is essential for optimal winter charging performance, preventing drastically reduced speeds and longer charging sessions. The reviewer strongly advocates for utilizing this feature, whether through manual activation or navigation, to ensure a positive EV experience in cold climates.