Drive Auto Group
Ontario winters are notoriously cold, yet the temperatures inside a unique chamber at the Nissan Technical Centre North America are even more frigid.
Within these temperature- and humidity-controlled chambers, Nissan has exposed the all-electric ARIYA to conditions far more extreme than what the average driver will ever encounter.
"Our chambers are capable of temperatures ranging from -40 degrees Celsius to 80 degrees Celsius," said Jeff Tessmer, senior manager of Zero Emission Vehicles at NTCNA.
To assess whether the ARIYA can maintain its charge level in severe cold conditions, Tessmer and his team frequently conduct a “cold soak” test.
In a 24-hour cold soak conducted in early 2024, an ARIYA was left with a 17% battery charge in -20 degrees Celsius weather, without being plugged in or using its battery heater.
When the team came back after a long day, the ARIYA still maintained its 17% charge and started up right away.
"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," Tessmer said.
It’s one of the many temperature tests the team conducts when validating a vehicle before production begins. Some components are tested at temperatures as low as -40 degrees Celsius.
The ARIYA is equipped with various systems aimed at boosting its performance in both extreme heat and cold. On scorching days, a liquid-cooled thermal management system keeps the battery at an ideal temperature.
Conversely, on chilly days, a battery heater ensures the same. You can choose to activate the battery heater before setting off, guaranteeing it reaches an optimal temperature for departure.
The Ariya & MyNISSAN App
"When it comes to combatting cold temperatures, the ARIYA is very well equipped," said Ansu Jammeh, an engineer on Nissan's Zero Emissions Engineering team. "The MyNISSAN app lets you prepare the car well in advance. You can even set a timer so that every day, it will warm up at the same time."
Through the MyNISSAN app, you can preheat the cabin, monitor the interior temperatures, and set up a charging schedule.
Jammeh suggests that it's best to use these features while the vehicle is plugged in, as this allows it to draw power from the grid rather than depleting the vehicle’s battery.
"That way, your car is warm and cozy without having to draw on the vehicle's battery before you start your trip," he explained.
When you’re away from home, the app allows you to effortlessly find a charger on the Nissan Energy Charge Network.
Owning an ARIYA in cold weather climates offers several advantages, including the available e-4ORCE All-Wheel Drive.
Moreover, its cabin warms up much quicker than that of an internal combustion vehicle, as it doesn’t rely on an engine for heat.
"EVs get warmer faster. It's just the nature of the product," Jammeh said.
Nissan has been a trailblazer in the electric vehicle arena since the LEAF made its debut in 2009, and it has perfected the craft of testing EVs for both durability and performance.
The testing process spans several years, and it’s time wisely invested.
"Customers can get in their vehicles and expect the same performance every time," Jammeh said. "Your car is ready for you every day without any drama, wherever you live."
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