LONDON: As winter sets in and temperatures drop, electric vehicle (EV) owners face a familiar challenge: shrinking battery range. With the average EV boasting a 300-mile range, most can handle daily commutes—like the typical 40 miles driven by most commuters—without breaking a sweat. But cold weather can sap battery efficiency, making those miles harder to come by. On March 19, 2025, we’ve rounded up 11 expert tips to help you stretch your EV’s range and keep you rolling through the chill.
- Precondition Your Battery: Warm up your EV’s battery while it’s still plugged in. Many models, like those from Mercedes-Benz, let you schedule preconditioning via an app, ensuring the battery operates at peak efficiency before you unplug.
- Use Seat and Steering Wheel Heaters: Instead of cranking the cabin heater, which drains the battery, opt for heated seats and steering wheels. They use less energy while keeping you cozy.
- Drive Smoothly: Aggressive acceleration and braking burn through your charge faster. Maintain a steady speed and use regenerative braking to recapture energy, especially in stop-and-go traffic.
- Lower the Cabin Heat: Set the heater to a moderate temperature—around 18-20°C (64-68°F)—and layer up with a jacket. Every degree lower saves precious range.
- Park Smart: Whenever possible, park in a garage or a spot shielded from the wind. A warmer battery retains more charge than one exposed to freezing gusts overnight.
- Check Tire Pressure: Cold weather can deflate tires, increasing rolling resistance and reducing range. Keep tires at the recommended pressure—check your manual for specifics.
- Use Eco Mode: Most EVs have an eco setting that optimizes energy use by softening acceleration and limiting climate control. It’s a small trade-off for extra miles.
- Minimize Idling: Unlike gas cars, EVs don’t need to “warm up,” but idling with the heater on still drains the battery. Turn off non-essential systems when stopped for long periods.
- Plan Efficient Routes: Use your EV’s navigation to find routes with fewer hills and traffic jams. Apps like PlugShare can also locate nearby chargers for peace of mind.
- Keep It Aerodynamic: Remove roof racks or cargo boxes when not in use, as they create drag. At highway speeds, even small accessories can cut your range significantly.
- Charge Strategically: Charge to 80% for daily use to preserve battery health, and plug in during off-peak hours when the grid is less strained. If a long trip looms, top up to 100% just before you leave.
Battery tech is improving daily—newer models are pushing ranges closer to 400 miles—but winter remains a hurdle. A 2023 AAA study found EVs lose up to 41% of their range in freezing conditions when the heater’s on full blast. These tips, however, can help you claw back miles and avoid long charging stops. Whether you’re zipping through city streets or braving a frosty highway, a little planning can keep your EV humming all season long.
