6 Ways To Maximize Your Electric Car Battery Performance in Cold Temperatures

No one wants to be stranded in a car in the winter. At best, you could be cold and late as you wait for a tow or a ride; at worst, you are in danger of experiencing freezing temperatures or becoming involved in an accident.

If you drive an electric vehicle (EV), it’s even more important to be prepared for winter weather because all EV functions are dependent upon the car’s battery. EV batteries are affected by external temperatures so when the battery dies, so does your trip.

EVs and Cold Weather Don’t Mix

According to research conducted by the American Automobile Association, the average EV battery life can drop by more than 40% when the temperature drops below 20°F. The chemical reactions within the battery are slowed in colder temperatures, causing a faster drain.

The battery that powers the engine also supplies the heater, the lights, the defrosting mechanisms, the dashboard – everything needed to drive in winter weather. If you need power for forward momentum, you may have to sacrifice power elsewhere in the vehicle.

EV owners also must plan for longer charging times in the winter. Charging the batteries in the cold can take three to four times longer than charging in warmer temperatures and the batteries may not charge to typical levels even when given additional time.

Tips for Preventing EV Wintertime Failures

While EV battery technology continues to evolve, it is better to prepare for the worst than take a chance on depleting your battery in winter weather. Here are some ways you can protect your EV from potential cold-weather failures:

Keep the vehicle garaged as often as possible. Warmer cars are more likely to hold a charge.
Charge your EV to manufacture-recommended levels. Many manufacturers do not recommend charging to 100% as it will diminish overall battery life. Some recommend keeping the vehicle plugged in whenever it is not in use; others recommend charging to 80% capacity and then unplugging. Check your vehicle manual for ideal charging practices.
Precondition the vehicle using departure times to warm the interior of the car and the battery while still plugged in. You may need to build extra time into your travel plans.
Use features like heated seats and steering wheels to keep you warm to reduce battery drain from the interior heating unit.
Turn off the interior heat while charging. Again, look for ways to minimize battery drain while charging.
Clean snow and ice from your entire vehicle, not just the windshields. Any extra weight on the car will add to the load that the battery must manage.

Don’t Stay Stuck

Whether you own an electric or gas-powered vehicle, you can be prepared for the worst winter weather. When you choose Emergency Roadside Service coverage1 from Erie Insurance, you have support 24/7 if your vehicle breaks down. For less than the price of some cheap winter gloves, you can add this coverage to your comprehensive or collision policy. You’ll have immediate access to a towing service when you need it. For EV owners, Emergency Roadside Service coverage provides the added layer of protection needed in uncertain weather conditions.

Want to learn more about policy options for your vehicle? Discover great rates from local people who care. Contact us today for a free quote!

ERIE® insurance products and services are provided by one or more of the following insurers: Erie Insurance Exchange, Erie Insurance Company, Erie Insurance Property & Casualty Company, Flagship City Insurance Company and Erie Family Life Insurance Company (home offices: Erie, Pennsylvania) or Erie Insurance Company of New York (home office: Rochester, New York).  The companies within the Erie Insurance Group are not licensed to operate in all states. Refer to the company licensure and states of operation information.

The insurance products and rates, if applicable, described in this blog are in effect as of January 2024 and may be changed at any time. 

Insurance products are subject to terms, conditions and exclusions not described in this blog. The policy contains the specific details of the coverages, terms, conditions and exclusions. 

The insurance products and services described in this blog are not offered in all states.  ERIE life insurance and annuity products are not available in New York.  ERIE Medicare supplement products are not available in the District of Columbia or New York.  ERIE long term care products are not available in the District of Columbia and New York. 

Eligibility will be determined at the time of application based upon applicable underwriting guidelines and rules in effect at that time.

Your ERIE agent can offer you practical guidance and answer questions you may have before you buy.