19 January 2024
WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) – Electric vehicles (EVs) can have a tough time dealing with the latest freezing temperatures. The cold is hard on battery life which can cause EVs to lose longer distance capabilities much quicker when temps get below 40 degrees.
“Set your ranges closer. If you’re planning on 250 miles for every charge and you’re going to be planning on going 120 to 150 miles per charge and finding closer charging stations to stay safe. You don’t want to get left out in the cold,” Hyundai EV owner Ramsey Basurto said.
AAA says if you’re considering buying an EV, particularly in the midwest, to look at models that can drive farther distances and to know where the charging station options will be while out on the road. The winter weather could affect how quickly a pit stop can take.
“If you’re reliant on a public charger, those systems can be put out of service or less effective in the extreme cold, so definitely another thing for drivers of EVs to consider,” AAA spokesman Shawn Steward said.
The Department of Energy also reminds those with EVs that you’ll use more energy driving at higher speeds or carrying heavy loads. To help with reaching a full battery, you can warm up the vehicle while it is on the charger and it can save some of the impact on the battery while you are out.
“If you have an EV, if you can store it in a garage and can park it inside that will just limit the really extreme temperatures that can affect the batteries and also the cabin,” said Steward.
Even in optimal weather, some electric vehicles fall as much as 50 miles short of their advertised driving ranges.