#Chevy volt range in cold weather full#

Instead of dozens of vehicles, we are analyzing thousands, and recording their performance in real world driving conditions. This research project includes a much larger data set. Several organizations have studied these effects, including AAA, but they are often completed in laboratory settings or with only several vehicles. Cabin heaters generally draw from the high voltage battery, reducing how much battery is left for driving. In the cold, available engine heat is routed to warm the battery itself, meaning that cabin heating requires a power source. On the other hand, an EV has a much more efficient engine which does not generate as much heat. In cold weather, however, ICE cars redirect this waste heat from the engine to warm the cabin. All of the energy that ICE cars don’t use to propel them forward is turned into “waste heat,” which is typically just lost energy. The internal combustion engines (ICE) that power traditional cars are surprisingly inefficient.

Electric cars have to make their own heat.

Cold temperatures inhibit chemical reactions and act as resistance that slows down the physical processes.

Chemical and physical reactions in the battery occur more slowly in cold temperatures.

We cover them in detail in our hot and cold temperature article but the two main contributing factors are chemical and mechanical. Winter range loss occurs for a few reasons. Why Does Winter Weather Affect Electric Vehicle Range?

#Chevy volt range in cold weather full#

As the ice melts and the temperatures rise, your vehicle’s expected range at full charge should return to normal. The good news is that this range loss is temporary and there is no long term detriment to your battery. For EV owners in colder winter climates, like northern portions of the United States, daily driving and charging behaviors must be adjusted in these months. All electric cars experience some degree of range loss in cold weather.