What kind of coolant do electric cars use?
Electric cars primarily rely on a glycol-water coolant (a water-glycol mix) circulated in a dedicated battery-thermal-management loop. Most manufacturers use either ethylene glycol or propylene glycol, typically with corrosion inhibitors, and often with a toxicity preference for propylene glycol. A small minority of experimental or niche systems explore dielectric liquids for immersion cooling.
How cooling systems are designed in electric cars
Battery packs and power electronics generate heat that must be removed to maintain performance, longevity, and safety. Modern EVs use closed-loop cooling circuits that carry a coolant through battery modules and/or around the powertrain, with heat exchanged to ambient air via radiators or cooling plates. In some vehicles, a heat pump or heater circuit repurposes the same coolant loop to conserve energy when warming the cabin.
Common coolants used in electric cars
The following items describe the coolant types you’ll encounter in most mainstream EVs. The list below helps explain why these choices are popular and how they differ in practice.
- Glycol-water mixtures (either ethylene glycol or propylene glycol) used with anti-corrosion and anti-foaming additives
- Propylene glycol is often favored for its lower toxicity, which can be advantageous in leak scenarios or eco-sensitive areas
- Typical glycol concentrations range roughly from 30% to 60% by volume, with the rest being water, chosen to balance freezing point, boiling point, and heat-transfer efficiency
- Separate cooling loops are sometimes used for the battery and for the motor/inverter, depending on the vehicle’s architecture
- Dielectric coolants and immersion concepts exist in research or pilot programs but are not widely deployed in consumer models
In practice, almost all mainstream EVs rely on a glycol-water closed-loop cooling system for battery and electronics, with the exact formulation tailored to climate, vehicle design, and manufacturer standards.
Alternate cooling approaches under exploration
Beyond the standard glycol-water loop, researchers and some niche programs have tested other cooling approaches. These are not yet common in mass-market cars but represent potential directions for future performance gains.
- Dielectric liquids (non-conductive fluids) used for immersion cooling of battery modules in some prototypes or pilot projects
- Direct immersion versus indirect cooling: some concepts place coolant directly in contact with battery cells, while others use cooling plates or jackets around modules
- Dedicated cooling options for power electronics and inverters, sometimes with separate coolant loops from the battery circuit
These alternatives are largely in the testing or pilot phase and have not become standard across consumer EVs as of 2024–2025. Most buyers will continue to encounter glycol-water cooling in daily use.
Maintenance and safety considerations
Because the system is typically a sealed, closed-loop circuit, routine maintenance is limited. If a leak occurs or a warning indicator appears, technicians will check for coolant level, pressure, and integrity of hoses and seals. The coolant itself is often toxic in concentrated form (especially ethylene glycol), which is another reason many manufacturers favor propylene glycol in consumer vehicles. Coolant replacement intervals and procedures vary by make and model; consult your vehicle’s manual or dealer for specifics.
Summary
Electric cars almost universally use a glycol-water coolant in a closed-loop thermal management system to keep batteries and power electronics within safe temperatures. Ethylene and propylene glycol are the two main options, with propylene glycol commonly chosen for its lower toxicity. Additives prevent corrosion and foaming, and concentrations are chosen to suit climate and performance needs. While immersion and dielectric cooling are being explored in labs and pilots, they have not become standard in today’s consumer EVs. As battery technology evolves, so too may the cooling strategies, but glycol-water loops remain the industry default for now.
What coolant is used in Tesla?
Tesla G-48 coolant is a pre-mixed 50/50 solution of ethylene glycol and water. The coolant is ready to use. Do not add water. Tesla cannot provide warranties for any type of coolant other than Tesla G-48 coolant.
Do electric cars need a coolant change?
Electric vehicles still require coolant in order to operate climate control and cool the electrical systems. Unlike gas powered vehicles, however, EVs will need a low conductivity coolant to function. Some manufacturers, such as Tesla, state that you should not have to ever replace the coolant.
Is there a special coolant for electric cars?
What Type of EV Coolant Does My Electric Vehicle Use? The majority of EVs use glycol-based coolants. This is because they are not conductive, and therefore work best alongside the lithium-ion battery. Some older models, such as the Nissan Leaf and the Renault Zoe, used air cooling upon their introduction.
What color is EV coolant?
And combines organic and inorganic corrosion inhibitors. This hybrid technology effectively protects various metals and plastics found in the hybrid or BEV. Drive systems and battery.
