A new study by the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) has revealed that electric vehicle (EV) performance is significantly affected by cold weather, with range reductions of up to 39% and slower charging times observed in sub-zero temperatures.
The CAA EV Winter Test examined 14 popular EV models, representing over two-thirds of Canadian EV sales. Vehicles were driven from Ottawa to Mont Tremblant in temperatures ranging from -7 to -15 degrees Celsius, assessing driving range and charging speed in winter conditions.
CAA’s testing found that EVs drove 14% to 39% less than their official range estimates published by Natural Resources Canada (NRCan). The Chevrolet Silverado EV and Polestar 2 were the least affected, each experiencing only a 14% drop in range. In contrast, the Volvo XC40 Recharge had the most significant decline, losing 39% of its estimated range.
A recent CAA survey indicated that winter range loss is a major concern for Canadian drivers, with more than two-thirds citing it as a barrier to EV adoption. Among current EV owners, 65% reported experiencing reduced battery performance in extreme cold.
“The vast difference in results highlights the importance of truth in advertising when it comes to EV range,” said Ian Jack, vice-president of public affairs at CAA National. “CAA would like to see a made-in-Canada standardized labelling system for EVs that includes winter driving performance rather than just a single average.”
The study also measured how quickly EVs could recharge in extreme cold, using a DC fast-charger to track how much range was added in a 15-minute session. On average, vehicles gained about 100 km of range, equivalent to 28% of battery capacity.
The Tesla Model 3 demonstrated the fastest charging performance, adding over 200 km in 15 minutes. The Chevrolet Silverado EV followed closely, adding 199 km in the same period. However, charging speeds varied widely, with some models adding as little as 19 km.
CAA’s survey found that 40% of EV owners consider slower charging times in winter a significant issue. Additionally, 53% of EV drivers prefer using a gas-powered vehicle for long trips in extremely cold conditions.
CAA recommends strategies such as pre-conditioning the vehicle while plugged in, using heated seats instead of cabin heaters, and parking in sheltered areas to optimize EV performance in winter.
Other tips for maximizing EV performance include:
CAA surveyed EV owners from October 3 to October 22, 2024, gathering responses from 16,041 drivers across all provinces. This marks the second collaboration between CAA and PlugShare Research on EV ownership insights.
It also conducted a separate poll of 2,880 Canadians from September 13 to 21, 2024.
Do you have something to say about the latest findings? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
