Electric car in winter: range and charging in cold weather

In Norway in 2024, almost nine out of ten new cars sold were electrically powered – clear proof that electric vehicles are perfectly suitable for everyday use, even at low temperatures. But why can the range decrease, how does charging speed change, and what can you do about it?

Why do electric cars have a shorter range in winter?

In newer models, the effects of low temperatures are minimal, but the range can vary by 10 to 30 per cent depending on the vehicle. Here are the main reasons:

Reduced battery performance: The chemical reactions in lithium-ion batteries take place more slowly at low temperatures, which limits energy absorption and output.
Increased energy consumption: Heating systems, seat and steering wheel heating, and window defrosting require additional energy.
Tyres and driving resistance: Winter tyres and the increased rolling resistance on snow or ice increase energy consumption.

For comparison: combustion vehicles also need at least 15 per cent more fuel in winter.

Why does the charging speed change in winter?

Low temperatures affect the charging speed. To prevent damage caused by charging too quickly, the battery cells must be warmed up before charging, which can lead to longer charging times. However, many vehicles have a battery management system that preheats the battery while driving or before charging in order to minimise this effect.

Tips for optimising range

Thanks to modern technology and optimised batteries, electric cars can also be used effectively in winter. Here are some practical tips for staying safe and relaxed on the road, even in sub-zero temperatures.

Preheat while charging: Use the parking heater or preheating function while the vehicle is connected to the power grid. This helps protect the battery and preserve range.
Efficient driving style: Reduce your speed and avoid sudden acceleration. A steady, anticipatory driving style saves energy.
Use Eco mode: Many electric vehicles have an “Eco mode” that optimises the vehicle’s performance and the energy consumption of the heating systems.
Check tyre pressure: Correct tyre pressure ensures lower rolling resistance and improves energy efficiency.
Minimise additional consumers: Use seat heating instead of the interior heating, as it consumes less energy.
Electric car with heat pump: Some models are equipped with a heat pump as standard or as an option, which reduces electricity consumption. It can generate up to three kilowatts of heat from one kilowatt of electricity.
Charge after longer journeys: A battery that is already warm has better charging performance. You should therefore charge the car after a longer journey and not before setting off. Some models automatically switch on preheating when a charging station is entered in the navigation system. Others have manual battery heating.
Park the car indoors or in the sun: Ideally, park your electric car in a garage in winter, as it is usually warmer there than outdoors.

New battery technologies to combat the cold

Research is working intensively on batteries that are less susceptible to cold.

Solid-state batteries: These do not use a liquid electrolyte and are less temperature-sensitive. They promise a higher energy density and better performance at low temperatures.

Thermal management systems: Modern batteries are often equipped with heating and cooling systems that keep the temperature constant and thus optimise performance.

New electrolyte materials: Researchers are developing electrolytes that work efficiently even at low temperatures in order to improve the chemical reactions in the battery.

Benefits of electric cars in winter

Despite the challenges, electric cars also offer a number of benefits in winter:

The electric motor starts immediately
Preheating allowed: never scrape ice again
Electric cars drive more stably on ice and snow

In summary, it can be said that winter can affect the range of electric vehicles, but simple rules of conduct and technical advances can significantly minimise these losses. With an adapted driving style, efficient charging habits and modern vehicles, you can make optimum use of the potential of your electric car even in the cold season.

Electric from Appenzell to the North Cape

Appenzell satirist Simon Enzler and Bernese entrepreneur This Schwendimann travelled 8,000 km electrically over the holiday period with the support of BKW Energy – including 2,000 km on snow at temperatures as low as -28 °C. “It was an extraordinary adventure, but problem-free,” says This Schwendimann. “With 29 rapid charges and consumption of around 23 kWh/100 km (equivalent to 2.5 l diesel), we were back home after 111 hours and 39 minutes of driving time at an average speed of 72 km/h.”

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