Winterizing Your Electric Vehicle | Department of Energy

Opt for covered parking if possible

Just like gas-powered cars, EVs tend to run better when protected from freezing temperatures. Parking indoors or in a covered space during cold weather can help ensure your EV can go the distance through even the frostiest winter days.

 

Outdoor home charging

If you charge outside at home, take precautions to keep your charging connector from freezing. Charging connectors are designed to be waterproof, but heavy snow or sleet can still cause them to freeze. You can combat that risk by using a magnetic EV charging inlet connector cover or bag. And remember, always hang up the charger connector according to the manufacturer’s recommendations when not in use.

 

Warm up your vehicle before driving

All vehicles—EVs included—perform best in cold weather when they’re warmed up first. Many EVs offer the ability to heat the cabin and battery before driving via “preconditioning.” This practice is best executed while the car is still charging to ensure the battery is sufficiently charged and the cabin is sufficiently warmed to optimize performance. Should your EV not have a preconditioning feature, warming the vehicle up for a few minutes before driving will improve battery performance. And guess what? Unlike gas-powered vehicles, running your EV in your garage or out on the street does not produce harmful fumes.

 

Maintain a charge 

For winter preparation, make sure your EV’s battery is more than sufficiently charged before you begin your commute.

 

Charging at a public fast-charging station

Most batteries reduce charging power during the 80 – 100 percent range during fast charging; this means that the time it takes to gain those last few bars to reach 100 percent may take longer than what it’s worth for completing your trip in normal conditions. However, in more extreme cold temperatures and for longer trips, there may be a need for maximum driving range.  Consider charging your electric vehicle to between 80 and 100 percent given the conditions and your driving distance needs; in many circumstances, 80 percent charge will give you a level suitable for your immediate driving needs and open access for other drivers. Also, if the charging station is uncovered, be sure to place the connector back properly so it is ready for the next driver. 

 

Are you interested purchasing an EV? Consider opting for a heat pump if it’s available at the time of purchase. 

A heat pump draws in heat from the outside air to warm the car’s cabin much more efficiently than an electric resistance heater in most conditions. Some EV models have both heating technologies for maximum efficiency and cabin comfort across a wide range of outside temperatures. When purchasing your EV, ask the car dealer if a heated charge port door actuator is an available add-on.