What is heat pump?
A heat pump is a device that can make your electric car warmer by capturing and transferring heat from outside the car or other parts of the car, such as the motor or electronics. The heat pump works by using a refrigerant that absorbs heat from a warm source like a battery, and then changes from a liquid to a gas. When the gas gets compressed, it heats up even more and is transferred into the cabin of your car to keep you warm. As the heat is transferred to the cabin, it cools down and condenses back into a liquid in a secondary heat exchange. The process then repeats.
Do I need heat pump?
In Calgary, a heat pump can be a beneficial addition to your electric vehicle. Heat pumps are a more efficient way to heat your vehicle compared to traditional resistive heating systems, which use energy to generate heat. Heat pumps, on the other hand, transfer heat from the outside air to the inside of the vehicle, making them much more energy-efficient.
In cold temperatures, traditional resistive heating systems can significantly reduce the range of your electric vehicle, as they require a lot of energy to keep the cabin warm. Heat pumps can help mitigate this issue, as they are able to provide heat with less energy consumption, allowing you to get more miles out of your battery.
That being said, not all electric vehicles come equipped with heat pumps, and they may not be necessary depending on the climate you live in. If you live in a milder climate, a traditional resistive heating system may be sufficient. However, if you live in a colder climate and are concerned about the range of your electric vehicle in the winter, a heat pump may be a wise investment.