(February 24, 2022) Winter storms and frigid temps can stymie plans, but they don’t have to hinder electric vehicle charging and range, according to Electrify Canada, a company that builds DC fast charging stations. For those who drive an electric vehicle (EV) or are considering switching to one a common question is how the winter affects charging and range of the vehicle. People living in cold climates need to feel confident about driving electric in the winter.

Cold weather testing by the U.S. Department of Energy, shows a reduction in fuel economy for electric vehicles by roughly 39%. And according to the director of the University of Michigan Energy Institute, driving and charging an electric vehicle in colder weather has its nuances because temperatures below 4° Celsius can reduce charging power. With a bit of preparation and planning, your electric vehicle will get you where you need to go regardless of the weather.

Here are a few tips to help keep an EV running smoothly during the winter.

1. Charging may take longer
 — Your EV’s charging rate is controlled by the vehicle. Electric vehicle batteries are designed to operate optimally and deliver maximum charging power between 60 and 75 degrees. Temperatures below 39 degrees can reduce charging power — one study found that at 32 degrees, an EV battery took in 36% less energy than when the battery was charged for the same amount of time at 75 degrees. Whether you’re preparing for a long-distance trip or your daily commute, it’s important to account for the possibility of longer charge times.

2. Pay attention to overnight changes in range
 — Overnight cold temperatures can lower an EV’s range by an average of 20%. Be mindful of the potential reduction and pay attention to your vehicle’s console display, as some EVs can predict the reduction during cold weather conditions.

3. Plan your rides
 — Think about your upcoming charging stops to avoid finding yourself with limited range. The Electrify Canada mobile app helps drivers easily navigate the charging station map and see which chargers are currently available while on the road.

4. Park indoors — 
If possible, park your EV in a garage — the higher indoor temperatures can help your battery charge more quickly and hold a charge for longer.

5. Understand your EV’s cold weather features — 
Some EVs have a pre-conditioning feature that allows the driver to program or manually warm up the battery to more optimal temperatures, which can make the battery more efficient and maximize driving range. By understanding your EV and its charging needs, especially during colder weather, you’ll be better prepared to rely on an electric car no matter when and where you’re driving.