Summer driving tips
Driving in the Australian and New Zealand Summer can pose unique challenges due to extreme temperatures and variable weather.
Here are some Summer driving hazards to keep in mind, along with tips for safe driving. We’ve also included driving tips for Electric Vehicle (EV) drivers, too.
Stay hydrated and protected from the heat
Summer can bring scorching temperatures and intense sunlight. Keep drinking water in the car, and use sunshades to protect your vehicle's interior.
Rapidly changing weather conditions
Be prepared for variable weather by carrying an umbrella, extra clothing, and ensuring your vehicle's tyres have sufficient tread for wet conditions. Check weather forecasts before embarking on a journey.
Keep informed about bushfires in your area
Certain areas are prone to bushfires in summer, which can cause poor air quality, reduced visibility, and road closures. If driving through a smoky area, turn on your headlights, close air vents and windows, and look for alternative routes away from the smoke.
Be prepared for flash flooding
Avoid driving through flooded areas, as even shallow water can pose a significant risk. Read more about what to do if you’re driving in a flooded area.
Sun glare and intense UV radiation
Wear sunglasses with UV protection and keep your windshield clean to minimise glare. Consider installing sunshades on side windows.
Gravel roads and loose surfaces
Many scenic routes include gravel roads or loose surfaces, especially in rural areas. Reduce your speed on gravel roads and keep a safe following distance. Gravel roads can become more challenging to navigate after rain.
Tourist traffic and rural roads
Both Australia and New Zealand are popular destination for tourists. In Summer this can mean increased traffic in rural areas. Be patient, and drive at a safe speed on unfamiliar roads.
Beware of wildlife on the road
Drive cautiously, especially during dawn and dusk when wildlife is more active. Animals will often approach roads looking for water and food. Pay attention to road signs indicating wildlife-prone areas and use high beams at night in safe conditions to spot animals on the road.
Electric Vehicle (EV) specific tips
EV charging speed might slow in very hot conditions. Some EVs and charging stations have systems in place to manage this automatically.
You can precondition the interior temperature while your vehicle is still plugged in to help cool down the cabin without draining the EV battery. Hot weather can affect the estimated range of an EV due to increased use of air conditioning.
Maintain your regular service schedule
Fleet vehicle drivers should always ensure routine maintenance is completed. If you have any concerns regarding the drivability of your vehicle, book it into a dealership or service centre to be inspected.
On the road, you can always contact Custom Fleet’s roadside assistance for support.
Contact Custom Fleet roadside assistance
Australia: 1300 139 555New Zealand: 0800 453 274
Downloads
You can download our Summer driving tips in PDF form.
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