With rising summer temperatures, air conditioning becomes essential for drivers. However, its use is not without consequences on fuel consumption, and its impact can quickly increase if used improperly.
According to ADEME (the French Agency for Ecological Transition), air conditioning can **increase fuel consumption by 10 to 20%** on the road, and up to **35% in congested urban areas**. When used continuously, this increase remains moderate, around **5% on average**, but it still weighs on the budget, especially during long summer trips.
For electric vehicles, the effect is also measurable: air conditioning leads to an additional consumption of **1 to 2 kWh per 100 km**, which can affect range. ADEME thus recommends **not setting the temperature too low**, and maintaining it **between 23 and 25°C**, or **5 to 7 degrees below the outside temperature**.
Good Practices to Adopt
To limit overconsumption, experts recommend **intermittent use**, allowing for a balance between **the compressor**, **the battery**, and **the ventilation system**. Reasonable use also helps to **prevent unpleasant odors** related to stagnant humidity.
Another tip: avoid pushing the airflow to the maximum. Too powerful ventilation, especially in case of a crack on the windshield, can cause additional damage due to thermal shocks.
Comfort and energy efficiency are therefore not incompatible: it just takes a few simple gestures to stay cool… without increasing the bill at the pump.