How the Cold Affects Electric Vehicles

When it’s cold outside, the lithium-ions in an EV battery flow more slowly through the liquid electrolyte. This means less energy is released and the vehicle can’t run at its usual power.

Most EVs today have battery thermal management systems to protect them from the cold, but you may still notice a delay in how long it takes your battery to warm up in winter.

EV battery charging speed is slowed down in the cold, as well. Depending on the specific vehicle, it can take double or even triple the amount of time to charge up the battery when it’s below freezing outside. Remember to account for longer charging times when plugging in your EV in winter weather.

If the battery is too cold, the regenerative braking system in your EV may be limited. When driving in the snow, some EV manufacturers recommend turning regenerative braking off, anyway.

In the winter, some EVs can lose up to 30% of their range. People assume the only reason an EV’s range depletes in the cold is because of the battery. The auxiliary load, however, is usually the bigger culprit.

Energy is required to power the lighting system, windshield wipers, power steering, and all other manual, mechanical, and electrical devices in your vehicle. In the winter, this energy is subtracted from the battery to power the rest of your car (especially to heat the cabin), causing the car’s range to suffer.

Range loss from the cold is only temporary, however. Once your car is warm and running again, it should perform as usual. The cold also shouldn’t cause any long-term damage to your EV’s battery.

If you notice your EV range is depleting, it may also be because of your winter tires. Some winter tires are less efficient than others. Check the tire pressure frequently to make sure your tires aren’t slowing you down.