How Does Winter Affect EV Range?

Harsh winters are tough enough on drivers in Fairmont and Morgantown, but what about your car? Just as gas-powered vehicles suffer from performance problems in the cold, electric cars in winter can also face the same issues. Take a look at what you need to know about owning electric cars in cold climates, and visit Dan Cava's GMC for more EV tips and tricks.

How Does Winter Affect a Car Battery and Range?

No matter what type of car you drive in Grafton, the cold weather can cause issues. In fact, FuelEconomy.gov found that conventional gasoline vehicles typically have a 20% reduction in fuel economy at 20°F. This is because a car battery generates its power from a chemical reaction, and that chemical reaction occurs much slower when the weather is cold. 

Electric cars in winter feel the effects of the cold even more. That’s because a gas-powered car will generate heat from its internal combustion engine, but electric motors do not. As a result, electric cars run much colder. Plus, some batteries – like lithium-ion types – do not perform as well in the frigid temperatures. All of these factors can cut down on your potential range. 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 burn through their charge as you drive, but do electric cars lose charge when parked? The answer is yes, but it’s only a minimal amount. 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 need to leave your EV in storage over an extended period of time, it’s a good idea to come up with a plan for the battery. Feel free to reach out to the technicians at our storage department. You might need to unplug your battery or connect it to a continuous slow charger.

Tips for Electric Cars in Winter

So, how do you take care of electric vehicles in cold weather? It’s not difficult, and most EV owners adapt quickly to the minor changes. Here are a few considerations when prepping your home for an EV in winter:

• Preheating the Cabin: If your car is able, pre-heat the cabin while it’s still plugged in. This allows you to get a cozy car without burning through your battery.
• Charge Strategically: Some EVs allow you to set a departure time, so you can finish charging right before you head out for the day. This will give you the best range possible.
• Use Eco Mode: Eco Mode is designed to maximize your efficiency, which helps to counteract the reduction in range over the winter.

Find Out More with Dan Cava's GMC

Whether you want to get your car winterized at our service center or you want to test drive a brand new electric model, allow the team at Dan Cava's GMC to assist you in any way we can. Contact us with your questions about electric vehicles in cold weather, or just stop by Bridgeport.