Electric vehicle drivers across the UK are being issued a stark winter warning, as new research reveals a widespread lack of awareness about how plummeting temperatures can severely impact their car's performance.
The Chilling Reality of Winter EV Range
A study commissioned by Saga has uncovered that a significant number of motorists are unprepared for the seasonal drop in efficiency. 32 per cent of road users did not know that cold weather alone can reduce an electric vehicle's range by up to 20 per cent. This knowledge gap could leave many drivers at risk of unexpected breakdowns or becoming stranded.
Ali Ingram-Seal, Head of Motor Insurance at Saga, emphasised that winter presents "unique challenges" which can massively affect a vehicle's overall capability. "Electric vehicles are becoming a familiar sight on British roads, but winter driving still poses unique challenges for all motorists," she stated. "Understanding how cold weather can affect your car’s performance is key to avoiding unnecessary breakdowns and safety risks."
Common Mistakes Draining Your Battery
The research pinpointed several common behaviours that are exacerbating range loss during the colder months. It found that 35 per cent of individuals fail to switch on their car's eco mode in winter, missing a simple yet effective method to conserve precious energy.
Furthermore, heating habits are proving costly. 27 per cent of drivers admit to blasting the cabin heater, a practice that can reduce range by up to 17 per cent. An additional 29 per cent said they tend to overuse air conditioning, which further drains the battery.
Saga also highlighted a silent range-killer: tyre pressure. Many owners are likely travelling with underinflated tyres, which can silently sap efficiency and reduce range by up to 10 per cent without the driver even realising.
The Science Behind the Seasonal Slump
Mike Vousden, an electric vehicle expert at Motorpoint, explained the technical reasons for the performance dip. He noted that lower temperatures slow down the electrochemical reactions inside lithium-ion batteries, making them less efficient. The vehicle also uses extra energy to heat the battery pack to its optimal operating temperature, consuming power that would otherwise be used for propulsion.
"Low temperatures make batteries less efficient because they slow the electrochemical reactions inside, and the vehicle uses extra energy to heat the battery backup," Vousden clarified.
Ingram-Seal concluded with advice for all drivers navigating the winter months: "At Saga, we want to help drivers feel confident and protected year-round, whatever they drive. Understanding how the cold can affect your car’s performance is key to avoiding unnecessary breakdowns or safety risks."
