The allure of electric vehicles (EVs) often centers on their advertised range, a critical factor for many prospective buyers. However, real-world conditions, especially the harsh realities of winter, can significantly impact these figures. A recent winter range test conducted in Norway highlighted this discrepancy, revealing that only a small fraction of EVs promising over 300 miles of range actually delivered on that claim. This article delves into the findings of this test, explores the reasons behind the reduced range, and offers tips for maximizing EV performance in cold weather.
The Cold Truth: EV Range in Winter
The Norwegian Automobile Association (NAF) and the country’s Motor website, conducted a comprehensive winter range test, evaluating various EV models under real-world conditions. The test revealed that of the 24 EVs tested, 20 had a Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP) rating of at least 300 miles (483 km), some promising almost 450 miles. However, only four of these vehicles managed to exceed 300 miles in the actual test. This test underscores the challenges that cold weather poses to EV performance, with most cars falling significantly short of their advertised range.
The Discrepancy: Why the Range Reduction?
Several factors contribute to the diminished range of EVs in cold weather:
- Battery Chemistry: Lithium-ion batteries, the most common type in EVs, are sensitive to temperature changes. Cold temperatures slow down the chemical reactions within the battery, which reduces its ability to efficiently deliver power, leading to less available power and shorter driving range. This increased internal resistance makes the battery work harder, further contributing to range loss.
- Cabin Heating: Unlike internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles that utilize waste heat to warm the cabin, EVs must use energy from their battery to generate heat. This process can consume a significant amount of energy, especially when temperatures plummet. The need to keep the cabin warm, defrost windows, and maintain passenger comfort is a substantial draw on battery power, reducing the energy available for driving.
- Increased Rolling Resistance: Cold weather causes tire pressure to drop, increasing rolling resistance. This requires the vehicle to use more energy to maintain motion, further contributing to range loss.
- Aerodynamic Drag: Snow and ice accumulation on a vehicle can increase aerodynamic drag, requiring more energy to overcome air resistance.
- Additional Power Draws: Other features like window defoggers and heated seats can also contribute to battery drain, albeit to a lesser extent than cabin heating.
The Test Results: A Closer Look
The test involved running each car’s battery down to between 10-15 percent, which is a realistic level for most drivers. Some of the key findings include:
- The Top Performers: The Polestar 3 emerged as the top performer, losing only 5.18% of its range. The Porsche Taycan and the Kia EV3 also exceeded 300 miles, achieving 310 miles each.
- Significant Range Loss: Many EVs experienced substantial range reductions. For example, a Tesla Model 3 Long Range lost approximately 24% of its range. In some cases, vehicles with large batteries and high WLTP ratings, like the Voyah Dream, still underperformed, demonstrating that battery size isn’t the only factor in winter range.
It is important to note that the WLTP test, used in Europe, is known to be more optimistic compared to the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) ratings in the United States. Therefore, achieving the advertised range in real-world conditions, particularly in winter, is a challenge.
Top Performers in the Winter EV Range Test
| Vehicle | WLTP Range (miles) | Tested Range (miles) | Range Loss (%) |
|—————————-|——————–|———————|—————-|
| Polestar 3 | 560 | 531 | 5.18 |
| BYD Tang | 530 | 481.6 | 9.13 |
| Mini Countryman | 399 | 355 | 11.03 |
| Lotus Emeya | 500 | 436.3 | 12.74 |
| BYD Sealion 7 | 502 | 436.4 | 13.07 |
| Mercedes-Benz G-klasse | 443 | 380.8 | 14.04 |
| Kia EV3 | 590 | 499.1 | 15.41 |
| Porsche Taycan | 592 | 499.1 | 15.69 |
| BYD Seal U | 500 | 421 | 15.8 |
EVs That Struggle with Range in Winter
| Vehicle | Range Loss (%) |
|————————|—————-|
| Tesla Model S | 55% |
| Tesla Model Y | 52% |
| Tesla Model X | 52% |
| Tesla Model 3 | 50% |
| Nissan Leaf | 38% |
| Ford Mustang Mach-E | 37% |
| Volkswagen ID.4 | 35% |
| Chevrolet Bolt | 32% |
| Peugeot e-208 GT | 31% |
| Mazda MX-30 | 30% |
| Smart EQ ForTwo | 29% |
| Chevrolet Bolt EUV | 28% |
| Opel Corsa-e | 27% |
| Mini Cooper SE | 26% |
| Honda e | 25% |
Maximizing EV Range in Winter
While winter driving can pose challenges for EVs, there are several strategies drivers can use to mitigate range loss and improve efficiency:
- Preconditioning: Preheating the car while it’s still plugged into the charger warms the battery and cabin, reducing the battery’s workload once you start driving. This can be done through a smartphone app or by setting a departure time.
- Use Heated Seats and Steering Wheel: These features consume less energy than the cabin heater and provide targeted warmth, preserving battery capacity for driving.
- Park in a Garage: Parking in a garage, when possible, helps maintain battery temperature and reduces the energy needed to heat the car.
- Keep the EV Plugged In: When parked, keeping the EV plugged in allows the battery to stay warmer and can also enable preconditioning.
- Moderate Driving: Driving at moderate speeds and avoiding sudden acceleration can significantly reduce energy consumption. High speeds consume more energy due to increased aerodynamic drag.
- Check Tire Pressure: Ensure tires are properly inflated, as low tire pressure increases rolling resistance and reduces range.
- Plan Your Route: Utilize route-planning apps to identify charging stations and optimize your journey, especially for long trips.
- Minimize Heating: If driving alone, restrict heating to the driver’s side.
- Remove Snow and Ice: Brush off snow and ice from the car before driving to reduce extra weight and drag.
The Importance of Heat Pumps
Some EVs utilize heat pump technology, which is more efficient than traditional resistance heaters. Heat pumps can extend range by approximately 10% in cold climates, making them a crucial consideration for those living in colder regions.
Is Winter Range Loss Permanent?
The good news is that the range loss experienced during cold weather is temporary. EV batteries are designed to recover their full capacity once they return to optimal operating temperatures. As temperatures rise, the chemical reactions within the battery regain their normal efficiency. Additionally, the energy demand for heating systems drops, allowing more battery energy to be used for driving.
Conclusion
While the recent winter range test revealed a significant gap between advertised and real-world EV range in cold weather, it also highlighted the importance of understanding the factors that affect EV performance. By employing strategies to maximize efficiency, such as preconditioning, using heated seats, and maintaining proper tire pressure, EV drivers can mitigate the impact of cold weather on their vehicle’s range.
The test also emphasizes that not all EVs perform the same in winter conditions, with some models showing significantly better range retention than others. As EV technology continues to develop, it is expected that cold-weather performance will continue to improve, offering more reliability and convenience for drivers in all climates.
