Batteries

EV drivers were surprised to find their cars did not charge properly in the minus temperatures in Chicago. This was caused by a problem with the chargers but it points out a potential problem. Chemist know that the rate of a chemical reaction doubles for each ten degree centigrade rise in temperature. Normal room temperature is 20 degrees centigrade so if you drop to 10 degrees the rate is cut in half. Drop to zero and the rate is cut in half again and at minus 10 degrees centigrade it is cut in half again. Minus 10 centigrade is plus 14 degrees Fahrenheit. Anyone who lives in a cold temperature area knows how starting is more difficult on cold days.