Víctor Pardo, engineer and head of electronic repair at Norauto: "There are recommendations to prevent heat from affecting the car battery and, in beach areas, salt and humidity from facilitating corrosion."

Driving in summer, when temperatures are particularly high, requires taking into account a series of recommendations that we regularly share on this channel every year. In addition to the arduous "exit operations" to our vacation spot, often covering many miles, we mustn't forget the usual trips between towns, to beaches, or to the mountains that we make every day. Our car must always be in perfect condition so we don't have to find ourselves in the unpleasant situation of being stopped on the side of the road in the full sun. It's a responsibility we shouldn't shirk, because the safety of our family may depend on it.

But the current market and consumer trends force us, on this occasion, to pay special attention to hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric vehicles . Not surprisingly, 83,981 units of this type of vehicle have been sold so far this year, 71% more than the previous year (Anfac data). Furthermore, conventional hybrids are set to be the top-selling technology by 2025. This means that more and more Spaniards are opting for electric mobility.

In this context, Norauto, the comprehensive automotive maintenance chain, helps us understand the mistakes drivers should avoid during particularly high temperatures.

“For many drivers, this is their first summer with a hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or electric vehicle. With these particularly warm months approaching, it's important to implement a series of recommendations that will help keep your car in good condition and extend its lifespan, preventing sensitive components such as the battery and electrical system from being affected by the intense heat typical of these days, and in beach areas where salt and humidity promote corrosion,” says Víctor Pardo, head of electronic repair and electric vehicles at Norauto Spain.

Heat, therefore, is one of the main enemies of electric mobility . Batteries, electrical systems, and components suffer from high temperatures. Let's look at what to avoid.

Not taking into account that heat reduces range is the main mistake many drivers make. Hybrid and electric cars can experience a reduction in range due to high temperatures. Therefore, the distance they can travel on a single charge must be reduced. This isn't so much due to the battery itself, which is usually cooled, but because heat increases the need for cooling of the passenger compartment and the high-voltage electronic system, which increases energy consumption.

Charging your car in sunny locations can affect its charging efficiency. For best performance, it's recommended to charge at temperatures between 20 and 25°C, and in covered or roofed locations well protected from the heat, such as underground parking. Charge early in the morning or after sunset.

Making any type of trip, especially long distances, without planning your car's charging time is another common mistake. Therefore, it's highly recommended to know the charging points available along your route and calculate the point of your trip where you'll need to recharge.

This applies to all cars, but avoid parking your car in the sun regardless of the ambient temperature. It's important to prevent overheating, as excessive heat can affect battery performance. If possible, we should park in shaded areas or ventilated garages.

Using the air conditioning system irrationally, excessively, reduces the car's range. It's best to agree with the occupants on a constant temperature of around 22°C. And, above all, ventilate the cabin before setting off. And, if possible, use natural ventilation. Driving with the windows down is also counterproductive.

Another common mistake. We must forget, especially in summer, about rushing and the hackneyed "arrive on time." The important thing is to arrive, not "when." And drive smoothly, without accelerating, to optimize efficiency.

All cars now include an ECO or efficient driving mode, the most suitable for saving battery life and increasing range.

Leaving your car parked for a long period of time near the sea, in the presence of humidity and salt spray, can affect any automobile, and of course, this type of vehicle, which also has a high electrical component.

In addition, more generally, you should pay attention to your tires (check their pressure), oil, brakes, shock absorbers, coolant, windshield wiper blades, and all your car's lights. And always drive with all your windows clean. Visibility is essential on the road.

Finally, regarding tires, we must remember that cars without puncture repair kits have five, not four. The spare tire also counts and should be checked periodically and kept at the manufacturer's recommended pressure.