Electric outboard motors typically feature lithium-ion batteries. These batteries become affected by temperature changes. At low ambient temperatures, the internal resistance increases. The chemical reactions inside the battery slow down, and the electrolyte becomes charged. This reduces the power output and usable battery capacity. Overall, this reduces the unit’s effective range on the water.
Impact on safety and charging times
Charging in cold weather is more challenging. At lower temperatures, lithium-ion batteries charge more slowly. The battery management system may limit the current to prevent damage to the cells.
Moreover, trying to charge a battery when it is too cold may risk the plating. This is the place where the lithium metal deposits on the anode. Lithium plating can harm the lifespan of the battery permanently. There can also be safety issues.
Battery capacity loss in a cold climate
In a cold climate, you will experience a reduced battery capacity. As the temperature falls below the optimal range, some lithium ions move freely between cells. This reduces the amount of energy that can be stored or drawn.
Internal resistance typically increases in cold temperatures. This lowers the voltage under load. Additionally, it reduces the efficiency of electric outboard engines. It has to pull more energy for the same performance.
This indicates that the electric outboard battery delivers around 70-80% of its standard capacity in freezing conditions, thanks to its effective thermal management.
Auxiliary power needs and range penalties
As cold-weather operations reduce usable energy and increase losses, an outward-driven boat has reduced cruising range in winter. To maintain and sustain performance, the battery has to supply more energy. Some energy may also be diverted to the thermal management systems that warm the battery.
Long-term impact on battery life
Repeated charging in low-temperature conditions and frequent exposure to cold degrade battery health over time. Cold causes mechanical stress on the battery and lithium plating. This leads to poorer cycle life and capacity loss. Reduce cold-weather losses with these practical tips:
- It is always good to store batteries in a warm place. When the battery is not in use, keep it indoors in a cabin or garage, rather than leaving it exposed to freezing temperatures outside.
- Refrain from charging at very low temperatures. The battery will need some time to warm up. You can also try a BMS/charger that supports low-temperature protection.
- The battery range may be less sometimes. It is best to plan for a shorter range in cold weather conditions. It is recommended to carry some buffer to combat a worst-case drop.
- Try pre-warming the battery for a better result. Use an external heater or a built-in thermal management system. This will help bring the battery to a safe temperature.
- You can use high-quality lithium batteries sold by top entities like furthercustoms.com. These run well in low temperatures for a considerable amount of time.
Summing it up
Cold weather tends to affect the overall performance of electric outboard batteries. The batteries have reduced capacity, slow charging, and increased internal resistance. This leads to potential long-term damage and a shorter range.
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