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Loss of Range

3,418 bytes added, 04:06, 12 November 2019
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Zero [https://www.zeromotorcycles.com/range/ range] can vary remarkably more than a gasoline-powered vehicle, which takes time to understand.
: Zero range estimates are accurate ''for the conditions stated''.
: First, consult Zero's [https://www.zeromotorcycles.com/range/ Range page] for factors that change real-world range.

; Related Confirming Symptoms
* [[Power Reduction]] at higher SoC levels.
* Lower range estimates for a given SoC reading, especially near 100%.

; Potential Causes
* The majority of range loss is due to the effects of cold weather on the battery.
* Internal resistance increases in batteries at low temperatures.
* Rain will exacerbate the problem since thermal transfer will be higher with water contacting the battery case.
* The [[Official_Owners_Manual|official manual]] has a section for Cold Weather specifically calling out that up to 30% of range might be reduced at 30F ambient temperature.
* The effect is roughly linear below (say) 45F ambient temperature.
* The [http://batteryuniversity.com/learn/article/discharging_at_high_and_low_temperatures internal resistance] of the battery is the primary mechanism for reduced performance.

;Recommendation
: If full range is required at low temperatures, wrap the battery in a suitable insulating material in cold seasons.
: Neoprene at 1/16" thickness has been tested at highway speeds to make a marked difference in battery temperature (but not to an unsafe degree).
:: Cover the front of the battery primarily and the forward halves of the sides.
:: Make sure to securely fasten the neoprene so it will not get caught in the front wheel.
:: Grommeted holes can be used to secure the wrap through the central frame tube and the tank plastics.
:: A thin (3mm or 1/8") sheet above the battery would also help in cold precipitation.
: Masking tape across the front face has also been used effectively.
: {{Warning|Any wrap used to insulate the battery at low temperatures will prevent sufficient cooling for it to operate at normal temperatures. Remove any wrap when operating above 45F.}}

;Advice/Experience via [http://electricmotorcycleforum.com/boards/index.php?topic=7431.msg62019#msg62019 Zee in Northern Ontario]:
<blockquote>
Well this Canuk is a heavy sled (snowmobile) head and lives in northern ontario and owns 2 Zero's 2010MX & 2015FX and rides all year long as long as the roads are clear.
* The bikes are stored in a non heated garage and it takes full battery awareness and charging smarts to keep everything going all winter.
* The temperature inside the garage is usually 10C warmer then outside.
* I automatically plug every bike in after every discharge when the batteries are still warm so the FX is usually fully charged when I start a ride.
* When I decide to go for a ride and it is -20C outside
*# I will first go for a 20% discharge were the bike will run like a lame duck.
*# Then I will put the bike back on charge with extra charger while the batteries are warmed up
*# When the bike is back at full charge then the bike wakes up a bit but still not at full summer power but enough power to tickle my fancy.
I can't wait for battery technology to advance so I can covert my sled (snowmobile).
* Also be aware that the battery will shut down with up to 20% power left if you are pulling steady on it in the cold weather :) cheers
</blockquote>
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[[Category:Performance Issue]]

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