Electric car in winter: overview of range loss
The ranges of electric cars are a big problem in winter. Because drivers have to reckon with major losses here. We show you how high the range loss is in the cold.
Electric car: That's why there is a loss of range in winter
Depending on the electric car, the realistic range is between 150 and 400 kilometers. These values are perfectly adequate in summer, but in winter numerous factors ensure that the range is undercut by far.
- All energy, and therefore heat, in an electric car comes from the battery.
- Due to the cold, the friction in the drive is significantly higher, so more energy is required. Heating for the interior and rear window as well as the blower also draw electricity, but are not required in summer.
- The heating consumes up to 5 kilowatts per hour. A car battery with a power of 15 kilowatts would only have reached the end within three hours if the battery was used.
- It also takes a long time to charge. Electric cars are equipped with lithium-ion batteries. When temperatures drop below zero, it slows down the movement of the ions and thus the chemical reactions.
E-car: Often enormous range loss in winter
- In winter, the range loss is up to 70 percent depending on the model. You can expect an average loss of 50 percent. Charging electric cars also takes significantly longer in freezing temperatures.
- In the meantime, many manufacturers have reacted: a heat pump is integrated in the new Renault Zoe. VW and BMW currently charge an additional 975 and 660 euros for a heat pump in the eGolf and in the BMW i3 and BMW i3s. According to BMW, the range is increased by the heat pump by more than 30 percent.
- Two other tips : Be sure to put the car in the garage overnight so that the cold doesn't get to the battery so easily. You should also use the preheating system if the Stromer has it.
Range calculator at EFahrer.com
Current tests and a range calculator can be found on our e-mobility portal EFahrer.com. There you will also find a large advisory area around electric cars.
In the next practical tip, we will show you how to charge your electric car at home.