Electric vehicles face challenges in cold weather, leading to reduced driving range. A study by Recurrent analyzed data from over 18,000 vehicles, revealing that heat pump-equipped models perform better in winter, maintaining around 83% of optimal range compared to 75% for others. Tesla models excel, with the Model S and Model X retaining the most range. Strategies like preconditioning and using heated seats can help mitigate winter range loss for electric cars.
Challenges of Electric Cars in Winter
Electric vehicles and cold weather often struggle to coexist harmoniously. As temperatures drop, energy consumption tends to rise, leading to a decrease in driving range. This phenomenon has been documented in numerous studies, with the latest insights coming from the American company Recurrent.
Insights from the Latest Study
Recurrent’s research, which draws from data collected from tens of thousands of electric vehicles across the U.S., delves into the seasonal performance differences among various models. A significant finding is the prevalence of heat pump-equipped cars among the top performers in winter conditions.
The study analyzed “hundreds of millions of kilometers traveled” by over 18,000 vehicles from 20 well-known brands. It focused on the disparity in range between optimal conditions (at temperatures between 20 and 23°C) and frigid conditions at 0°C. On average, a 20% reduction in range was observed, though the impact varied widely among different models.
Leading the pack are Tesla models, with the Model S and Model X showing remarkable resilience, maintaining 88% and 89% of their range in cold weather, respectively. The Model 3 and Model Y follow closely behind, retaining 87% and 86% of their range. The Audi e-tron GT also performs admirably, ensuring 87% of its range.
Conversely, the Volkswagen ID.4 struggles significantly, achieving only 63% of its summer range at 0°C, while the Ford Mustang Mach-E fares slightly better with 66%.
The Role of Heat Pumps in Enhancing Performance
This study emphasizes the critical role of heat pumps in electric vehicles. Recurrent’s findings indicate that cars equipped with heat pumps maintain an average of 83% of their optimal range in cold weather, compared to just 75% for those without this technology.
Among the top 10 models analyzed, only one lacks a heat pump (the Rivian R1S). Notably, the Cadillac Lyriq and Chevrolet Equinox, which share the same Ultium platform, find themselves at the lower end of the ranking.
Focusing on the Model 3, which varies in heat pump availability depending on the model year, reveals a significant advancement. The company estimates that adopting heat pump technology could lead to a 10% improvement in range.
Interestingly, vehicles equipped with LFP (lithium-iron-phosphate) batteries, often considered less efficient in cold weather compared to NMC (nickel-manganese-cobalt) batteries, have displayed commendable performance, although charging may be slightly slower.
As a final note, it’s essential to implement strategies to optimize the range of electric vehicles during winter months. Utilizing preconditioning to warm the cabin and battery while the car is still charging, as well as favoring heated seats and steering wheels over traditional heating, can significantly mitigate the effects of cold weather.