knightmb
Well-known member
The amount of power used by the AC is both based on the temperature setting and fan speed. For example, I have mine set for 72 all the time. I use to fan speed to control how much power is used. So if I just get in the car and it is hot, I crank it up to the highest fan setting. After a few minutes (and time for the AC to really get going), I lower it down to 1 or 2 bars for fan speed and this lowers the AC power usage way down. Using the top vent and re-circulate also saves a lot of power (remember, no need to worry about gas fumes building up inside). When you use Auto, while convenient, you might notice after a while it switches re-circulate off. That means it technically takes more power to keep the temperature inside cool because it is bringing in hot/warm air. During the day time, that is not necessary since the window probably won't fog up. Night time is when that might be more useful.jamieo said:Also, I tend to be a little conservative with the AC. I'm comfortable with the temperature set from 75-82, depending on the outside temp. I also use Auto climate control.
The impact on the expected range has varied from 3 to 10 miles.
AC power usage can vary from 3,000 watts on high to nearly 100-200 watts on low, depends on if you're moving or sitting in traffic. As you may already know, you can have the AC going while on the charger to save time, range and have the cabin nice and comfortable.