Like internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, EVs can be affected by extreme weather, most notably the long spells of cold we experience in the UK. So, how does cold weather affect electric cars? 

The experts at RAW Charging have shovelled through an avalanche of information to bring you the need-to-know facts on how to charge your EV in cold weather, what to avoid, and some helpful tips for prolonging the life and range of your battery.

Does Cold Weather Affect Electric Cars?

Colder temperatures reduce the efficiency of an EV battery. Like people, EV batteries like to be at an optimal temperature to perform best, and if they are too hot or too cold, you will notice a drop in performance. 

The optimal temperature for an EV battery is a toasty 20-25℃. When at lower temperatures, you can expect to see the following decrease:

• 10℃ - expected efficiency of 2.0 m/kWh with an 8% reduction in range.

• 0℃ - expected efficiency of 1.5 m/kWh with a 34% reduction in range.

It is crucial to remember that the reduced range in extreme temperatures is only temporary. Once the weather warms up, your EV's range will return to its normal levels. 

Understanding the Impact of Cold Temperatures on EV Range

• Battery performance: In cold weather, slower chemical reactions within the battery reduce efficiency and cause faster battery drain. The electrolyte fluid becomes thicker in freezing temperatures, slowing the electrochemical process and weakening power flow.

• Adverse driving conditions: When driving an EV in cold temperatures, you must consider more than just the impact on the battery. If you are travelling in icy, snowy or windy conditions, there will be an increased resistance against the vehicle as it battles against the elements, which means the EV will use more energy. It is worth noting that EVs have better traction control than ICE vehicles and use regenerative braking to increase their energy consumption.

• Increased use of headlights and heating: Because the winter months are darker, headlights are used much more than in the lighter summer months. Colder temperatures also mean more use of the EV’s heating system; both factors increase energy use and slightly reduce range.

Charging Electric Cars in Cold Weather

Frosty mornings and freezing temperatures will mean longer EV charging times, so it is essential to account for this before you start your journey, use rapid charging hubs, or factor in charging stops along the way. 

It is recommended that you charge the EV battery while it is still warm. Doing so will maintain a more optimal temperature while retaining heat, reducing the charging time. The same is true for EV chargers, which perform better in warmer conditions than in cold ones. For this reason, it is always advisable to place EV charge stations indoors or ensure they are sheltered where possible. 

EV Charging Tips: Five Ways to Combat Cold Weather Charging 

Thankfully, there are some tips for charging EVs in cold weather that can make winter mornings less painful and long, bleak journeys less stressful. 

1. Maintain your EV battery

EV batteries are the most crucial part of your electric car, and proper maintenance is essential for maximising your range, especially in cold weather. You can use the following tips to ensure consistent battery maintenance and performance:

• Keep your battery’s State of Charge (SoC) over 20%. The optimal charge level for batteries is 20% to 80%. Charging to 100% can degrade battery life over time while allowing the battery to drain to 0% will mean longer charge times.

• Use destination charging where possible. In the long run, a slower charge overnight or during an extended stay is better for your EV battery than regularly using rapid chargers, which can degrade battery life over time.

• Have your EV battery serviced regularly. Just as you would with the engine of any ICE vehicle, having your EV serviced is a fantastic way to ascertain its health and ensure everything is in proper working order — particularly ahead of the winter months, when more strain will be placed on the battery.

2. Preheat your EV while charging

Starting your journey in a cold car is never pleasant, so you should avoid heating your vehicle after you have set off. Preheating your EV while charging will precondition the vehicle, bringing the battery to its optimal temperature while heating the interior without adding to energy consumption or resulting in a loss of range. Many EVs will allow you to do this remotely within the vehicle’s integrated app.

3. Opt for seat and steering wheel warmers instead of heaters

Use heated seats and steering wheels to stay warm on the go if possible. These features use less energy versus heating the entire cabin of the EV, allowing you to keep your extremities warm and making your journey much more enjoyable with minimal impact on the EV range.

4. If possible, park your EV in a garage

Though not everybody owns one (particularly those living in the inner city), if you do, parking your EV in a garage is an excellent way to retain heat and ultimately reduce charge times. The same is true when you are out and about. To keep your battery warmer, park your EV in a sheltered structure, such as a multi-storey or underground car park, found in many retail and leisure sites.

5. Plan your journey

In the winter, many EV drivers may escape our colder climate for warmer pastures, seeking hospitality destinations that offer adequate EV charging facilities. Though planning is especially important for longer journeys, the same applies to shorter journeys in colder weather. Plan your route and ensure that your EV battery has enough range to get from A to B (factoring in any potential impact on EV range from the cold). If not, note the most conveniently located rapid hubs along your route and schedule a top-up. Remember, it is best to avoid allowing the EV’s battery and cabin to cool down, as reheating will require more charge time and energy.