What is the most energy-efficient way to stay warm? As the cost of heating our homes rises, it is a question on many people’s minds. Ford engineers were tasked with answering the same question as part of a project to help improve electric vehicle (EV) range.

When it comes to heating electric vehicles, warm air can be blown into the cabin using aircon. Alternatively, surfaces can be heated. These can be surfaces with which occupants come into direct contact, or they could be panels that radiate heat towards the driver and passengers.

Both require battery power,...