The other problem with electric cars: they lose up to 20% of their range in the cold

Cold weather has a major effect on electric cars, and that can be a problem. In our country, the winter season does not pose serious issues, since temperatures, though low, are usually not too problematic. At least for long periods and only in specific areas of our geography. But in other countries, it is common to encounter quite low temperatures. And this causes problems for electric vehicle batteries.

A new study just published in the United States compares several electric models that have been put through the rigors of winter. And, unsurprisingly, it has found that the effect of low temperatures is quite worrying for everything related to the battery. But even so, it is important to know that there are models that suffer the effects of cold more than others.

The models that suffer the most

This study reviewed the performance of 18,000 units of 20 electric models. The company Recurrent found that the drop in range can reach as much as 37%, which is worrying. The study was conducted at temperatures of 0ºC or below, and the average reduction was put at 20%.

Those that suffer most from low temperatures are the Volkswagen ID.4, whose range drops to 63%; the Ford Mustang Mach-E, which falls to 66%; the Chevrolet Bolt, whose range drops to 69%; and the Cadillac Lyriq, which loses up to 72% of its range.

On the other side, where the cars that feel the effects of negative temperatures least are found, the Tesla Model X stands out, falling only to 89%. It is followed by the Model S, which drops to 88%, and behind it is the Audi e-tron, which records a range of 87%, tied with the Model 3. Below that is the Model Y, with a range of 87%.

In the middle position we find models such as the KIA EV9, which loses range down to 82%; the Rivian RT1, with 81% range retention; and the Nissan LEAF, which offers 79% range. Another factor that was taken into account is the presence of a heat pump. Most of the vehicles that maintain greater range have this feature.

The difference can be seen in models such as the Tesla Model 3, since range loss was measured in versions with and without a heat pump. In the first case, range holds at 87%, but without it, it falls to 79%. This confirms the functionality of the heat pump and how practical its use is. And not only for maintaining range, but also for efficiency when charging the battery.