EV reduced power (turtle) light

How to read it

Nissan’s 2020 LEAF manual says that when the power limitation indicator light is illuminated, the power provided to the traction motor is reduced, so the car is not as responsive when the accelerator is pressed. Hyundai’s 2023 Ioniq 5 manual says the power down indicator light illuminates when the power is limited for the safety of the high-powered parts of an electric vehicle, and also for about 3 seconds when the car is switched on. Kia’s guide to its electric-car lights draws it as a turtle in a circle.

Also searched as: reduced power warning, turtle light.

When it comes on

The LEAF manual lists four conditions: the Li-ion battery’s available charge is extremely low; the battery is very cold, about −20 °C (−4 °F); the EV system (motor, inverter, coolant system, battery) is hot; or the EV system has a malfunction. It is also the last of three stages the manual describes as the battery runs down, after the low battery charge warnings. Hyundai lists a high voltage battery level that is too low or a voltage that is falling, a battery that is too hot or too cold, and a hot motor. Hyundai says that unless the service warning light comes on at the same time it is not a failure, and Kia’s guide says the same.

What the manuals say to do

Nissan’s LEAF manual says to follow the instructions on the vehicle information display. If the battery is cold, it says to move the car somewhere warmer; if the EV system is hot from continuous hill climbing, to drive on at a slower safe speed or stop in a safe place; and if the light does not go out, to have the system checked. Hyundai’s manual says not to accelerate or start suddenly while the light is on, and warns that the car may not be driven, or may roll back on a slope. Kia’s guide says going up hills may be difficult.

Differences by maker

Chevrolet’s 2022 Bolt EUV manual describes messages rather than a turtle light: PROPULSION POWER IS REDUCED, which can affect the car’s ability to accelerate, and PROPULSION POWER REDUCED DUE TO TEMPERATURE, which Chevrolet says is most commonly shown when the high voltage battery charge is low, or after the car has been parked in extreme cold without being plugged in.

Look-alikes

The high voltage battery level warning shows a low charge before power is cut. The READY light only shows the car is on and can be driven.