How Are Electric Cars in Cold Weather?

Cars in general can experience some challenges in cold weather, and the same holds true with electric cars in winter. The severe drop in temperatures during the winter months in the Minnetonka area can affect efficiency, battery life, and performance in any vehicle, including EVs. If you’re considering one of the new MINI Cooper electric vehicles for sale at Motorwerks MINI in Golden Valley, you’ll want to take a look at some of the issues regarding electric vehicles in cold weather so you can be prepared for the wintry days ahead.

Some Important Facts on Electric Cars in Winter

While electric cars in cold climates perform very well, they are still subject to many of the same challenges that traditional vehicles encounter in wintertime. Here’s what to expect from electric vehicles in cold weather:

• Efficiency: All vehicles, including EVs, may suffer reduced efficiency in winter. While electric cars in cold climates may lose some range, features such as pre-conditioning and improved battery technology, can help to mitigate these effects.
• Battery Life: Electric vehicles, like gas-powered cars, can lose battery power in cold weather. However, in most cases, this energy loss is very minimal. Do electric cars lose charge when parked? Whether in warm or cold temperatures, EVs will lose a very small amount of charge when parked. This is because the vehicle is still powering various electric systems even when it isn’t being driven.

Advantages of Electric Vehicles in Cold Weather

There are many benefits of EVs that you will enjoy year-round, no matter what the weather is like. But looking specifically at electric cars in winter, you can look forward to advantages such as:

• Performance: Electric vehicles in cold weather perform quite well, as their low center of gravity and evenly distributed weight can improve handling on slick, icy St Louis Park-area roads.
• Instant Heat: Unlike conventional cars, electric vehicles can provide immediate heat, as you won’t have to wait for the engine to warm up. You’ll appreciate this in cold weather.
• Remote Start: Many electric cars feature remote start, so you can pre-warm your car on those frigid winter mornings.
• Less Maintenance: With fewer moving parts, electric vehicles in cold weather require less maintenance than conventional gas-powered cars.

How To Maximize Your Range With an Electric Car in the Winter

When driving an electric car in the cold climates you need to think about different ways to maintain your charge and maximize your range. Here are a few tips on getting the most out of the charge and range of an electric vehicle cold weather:

• Charge Reserve: EVs tend to use about 15% to 20% of their charging capacity to heat the battery and related components, so you should make sure that your vehicle is fully charged before you head out on your Minneapolis commute.
• Parking: Do electric cars lose charge when parked? As previously noted, EVs can lose a small amount of charge when parked. But parking in a heated and covered garage during colder days can help your EV maintain more of its charge. If you can’t park in a covered garage, parking in a sunny spot can be beneficial.
• Heating: Using your vehicle’s heating system sparingly can help you to maintain the maximum range. You don’t have to keep the cabin cold, just don’t run the heater nonstop.
• Charging: Keep your vehicle plugged in whenever possible. Whether you’re using a home charger or stopping in at a public charging station, keeping your vehicle plugged in when you’re not driving will ensure you’ve got plenty of range.
• Plan Ahead: If you’re planning on driving long distances during the wintertime, make sure you plan ahead. Many EVs feature the capability to help you plan your route with charging stations in mind.

Check Out the Electric Vehicle Options at Motorwerks MINI

Driving electric cars in cold climates may result in a slight reduction in range and charge retention, but this can be manageable with recharging the vehicle regularly and making a few minor adjustments to how you drive and where you park. If you have any further questions or if you would like to test drive one of our all-electric MINI Cooper models, contact us online or give us a call at (952) 213-5589.