How Does Winter Affect EV Range?

Frigid temperatures and frosty roads in Dalton are tough enough on your typical gas-powered vehicle, so what about EVs? How does the cold affect electric cars in winter? Electric vehicles can face issues like reduced range once the temperatures drop, but there are ways to offset these effects. Find out everything you need to know about electric cars in cold climates, and get more service tips with our team at Riverside Chevrolet of Rome.

How Does Winter Affect a Car Battery and Range?

The fact is that cold weather is hard on any automotive battery. That’s because a battery generates its power from a basic chemical reaction, and this reaction occurs much slower in the freezing weather. The extra heat provided by a combustion engine can help give batteries a boost, but EV vehicles run much colder than gas-powered options. Still, FuelEconomy.gov found that conventional gasoline vehicles typically have a 20% reduction in fuel economy at 20° F.

So, what about electric vehicles in cold weather? EVs feel the impact of the cold even more. According to an AAA study, “At 20 degrees, the average driving range fell by 12 percent when the car’s cabin heater was not used. When the heater was turned on, the range dropped by 41 percent.”

Do Electric Cars Lose Charge When Parked?

Electric cars in cold climates can face reduced range while navigating Rockmart, but do electric cars lose charge when parked? The answer is yes, but it’s very minimal. Plugin Report found that an EV can sit for months and months without a need for a charge with a battery half charged. If you’re planning on leaving your EV in storage for a long period of time, we recommend chatting with our technicians for advice. We can help you determine whether to disconnect you battery during the downtime or connect it to a continuous slow charger.

Tips for Electric Cars in Winter

What’s the best way to treat electric cars in cold climates? Here are some tips to maximize your performance, even when the worst of winter sets in:

• Preheating the Cabin: If you’re able, preheat the cabin while still connected to your charger in the morning. This allows you to get the car cozy without burning through your battery.
• Charge Strategically: Some chargers allow you to set a departure time, so the battery will finish charging right before you leave for the day. This will give you the best range possible.
• Use Eco Mode: To counteract the effects of the cold weather, consider switching into Eco Mode. Eco Mode will automatically configure your settings to get the best range.

Get More Tips and Tricks with Riverside Chevrolet of Rome

Want to learn more about driving electric cars in winter? Contact us at Riverside Chevrolet of Rome to learn more about EV basics, and learn more about the benefits of electric cars at our Rome showroom.