Heat Pump: really makes that much of a difference?

[fanbanlo]

Anyone has the details on whether the heat pump is more efficient than regular A/C or not?

 

[JimGord]

Yes, Heat pump much better in reducing battery drain. A good reason to get the Plus or LX model

 

[fanbanlo]

but doesn't it operate just like a regular AC for cooling?

It's only more efficient for heat, right?

 

[mtndrew1]

Correct, the heat pump is primarily more efficient for heating. If it's anything like the Leaf's heat pump, it's slightly less efficient for cooling.

On a 40 degree F night (cry for me, I live in frigid Los Angeles) my Volt's resistive heater would pull 3,500W of power easily and absolutely decimate EV range. The Soul uses about 500W to accomplish the same thing. It's a massive improvement and I love having the heat pump.