Does Cold Weather Affect Your EV’s Range?
We’re in the midst of winter, which means low temperatures and inclement weather. The onset of winter is a good time to consider how cold weather and icy conditions can affect your vehicle’s operation. If you’re an owner of an electric vehicle, you might be wondering how cold weather will affect your EV’s range. At Rosen Hyundai Kenosha, we’ve got you covered for all of your Hyundai electric car questions!
Cold Weather And Your EV’s Range
So, does cold weather impact your electric vehicle’s range? The short answer is no. Other things might, though. For example, running and maintaining the internal heating is what may cause you to see decreased range. For this reason, we recommend prioritizing range and always being cognizant of your charge level.
Engines take even longer than usual to warm up in cold weather because the low temperature makes it difficult to generate and circulate warm air. Additionally, the extra time required to warm up your vehicle results in less time spent at the optimal temperature for fuel efficiency. Both of these combine to mean that your engine is working harder than normal to power your vehicle, using more gas than normal. As a result, your vehicle’s efficiency will probably decrease—whether it’s an electric vehicle or gas engine.
Charging Your EV In Cold Weather
Just like how low temperatures can affect your EV’s range, charging your EV in cold weather will probably take longer than normal. All three types of EV charging—Level 1, Level 2, and DC Fast Charging—will probably require more time to fully charge your electric vehicle while temperatures remain low. However, it’s probably a good idea to allocate more than normal for DC Fast Charging because it will be most impacted by frigid temperatures.
Counteracting Reduced Efficiency
Hyundai EVs perform very well in the winter. For example, the Hyundai IONIQ 5 comes equipped with a new feature to help counteract reduced efficiency due to cold weather. The IONIQ 5 price starts at just $41,450, for which you’ll even get a heat pump and battery heater on all AWD 2022 model year vehicles. Both the Hyundai IONIQ 6 and the 2023 IONIQ 5 are expected to feature the battery heater as standard equipment on all versions.
Get Ready For Cold Weather With Winter Maintenance
One of the best things you can do for your safety and comfort during the colder months is to winterize your vehicle with special winter maintenance. Maintenance specially designed for cold weather and icy conditions includes investing in new wiper blades, refilling your vehicle’s fluids, or installing a cold weather car battery. Getting this kind of maintenance done is essential to maintaining your safety and the upkeep of your vehicle as temperatures lower.
Visit Rosen Hyundai Kenosha!
At Rosen Hyundai of Kenosha, we have a full inventory of new and used vehicles—including the exciting new Kona Electric! Our goal when you visit our new Hyundai dealership is to provide you with a superior experience satisfying your needs. Experience the Rosen difference when you shop or service with us! Visit us to check out our great selection of Rosen EVs today!
