In the depths of winter, it can often drop considerably below zero degrees, especially at night. An EV battery has an ideal operating temperature, preferably around 20-40 degrees Celsius depending on the car model, which can be difficult to achieve in winter. If the temperature is lower than this, it will affect both charging speed and range.
Yes, frigid weather may reduce your EV battery range. Here's how to prepare Freezing temperatures can have a significant impact on an electric vehicle's battery, but experts say there are ways to mitigate the effects of extreme cold.
In extreme cold, the charging points can also be affected and the result can be a considerably slower charging time so you can expect to spend longer at charging stations during winter. How does a drop in temperature affect the battery?
Yes, charging can be slower in cold weather. The cold increases internal resistance within the battery, making it harder to accept a charge. Low temperatures affect both the battery and the charging equipment, meaning you may spend extra time at charging stations. Plan for these delays when the thermometer dips below freezing.
Yuasa, a producer of 12-volt car batteries, says: “Cold temperatures directly affect the performance of car batteries. In fact, at zero degrees celsius a battery will lose about 30 per cent of its cranking performance. If your car will not start it’s usually because there is an issue with your battery.”
Most electric vehicle owners will experience lower EV car battery performance in winter, with reduced range and longer charging times being the most noticeable effects. At the time of writing, the UK is in the depths of winter.