Every car owner knows that air conditioning consumes more fuel than the other car’s systems. But did you know that when you connect your iPhone to your car it does the exact same thing? Although the effect is rather insignificant, it is something that does not usually get attention from a large number of users.
Charging your iPhone and gas consumption: What is the connection?
When you plug in your iPhone into the car either through Bluetooth, CarPlay, or charging cable, it gets its power from the car’s electrical system. This power is produced by the alternator; which is driven by the engine. Because of this the alternator will need to generate more energy and this means that the engine will have to work harder and this will in turn require more fuel.
This principle applies to anything that draws electricity in your car: lights, radio, Air Conditioning systems, and yes, even your iPhones. Despite the fact that the additional fuel is used in small quantities, it is still possible to calculate it.
What is the role of the Alternator?
The alternator, in other words, transforms the mechanical energy coming from the engine into electrical energy to power the car’s electronic systems as well as to charge the battery. When the phone is connected, the alternator has to struggle to produce some more electricity to power the device. This extra load is fuel powered therefore although it is minimal, using the socket to charge your phone consumes a bit of fuel.
What About Electric Cars?
It is the same for electric cars such as Teslas but instead of using gasoline, the power is derived from the car’s battery. Depending on whether you charge your phone and use other appliances, the car’s range will be limited. That is why if a Tesla has a low charge it may suggest to the driver to switch off non-essential systems such as lights and the radio to save battery.
Does This Really Matter?
The amount of fuel needed to charge your phone or use CarPlay is very little and it is on par with the energy used to charge your phone at home. However, it is worth mentioning that any electrical item that you use in your car such as lights, radio or the navigation system will have an impact on fuel consumption.
Conclusion
You won’t need to break the bank to link your phone to your car, but that does mean that this feature consumes a bit of extra fuel. Thus, the next time someone will tell you that energy in the car is ‘free’ because the car generates it as you drive, you would know that it is not entirely true!
Has it ever occur to you? Please feel free to post your thoughts in the comments below and whether this is something that you have tried before.