Does cold weather affect electric cars?
Cold weather reduces the range of every car – including electric cars. But electric cars are affected more – ironically, because they are so efficient. Unlike gas cars, which use residual heat from the engine to warm the cabin, EVs use electrical energy to heat up the car and its occupants, which draws power and reduces range. You can reduce the impact cold weather has on your EV’s range by ensuring its tires are properly inflated for maximum efficiency; using the “eco” setting on its heating system; pre-heat the car while it’s plugged in before setting off on a trip; and using the seat heaters to warm your body to reduce the load on the electric heater.