Study Finds EVs Retain 80% Of Range In Freezing Conditions: A Winter Performance Breakdown

As electric vehicles (EVs) face challenges in cold weather regarding range, a new study analyzed 18,000 vehicles to reveal how different models perform when temperatures plummet with findings that EVs retain around 80% of their rated range in freezing temperatures.

The Recurrent study, conducted during winters of 2024 and 2025, represents one of the most comprehensive examinations of EV performance to date. By analyzing data from over 18,000 vehicles across 22 models from 11 brands and eight automakers, Recurrent has created a definitive resource for understanding how EVs respond to freezing temperatures.

Notably, EVs maintain around 80% of their rated range in freezing conditions on average. This 20% reduction might seem significant, but automotive experts emphasize that this performance variation is not unique to EVs.

The study revealed fascinating variations among different EV models. Leading the pack was the Tesla Model X, which demonstrated an impressive 89% retention of its range in freezing temperatures. Close behind was the Tesla Model S, maintaining 88% of its range, showcasing Tesla’s strong performance in battery efficiency and thermal management.

The Audi E-Tron also performed admirably, retaining 87% of its range, making it another strong contender in cold climates. In contrast, the Volkswagen ID.4 exhibited the most significant reduction in range, maintaining only 63% of its typical performance, underscoring the variability in cold-weather capabilities across EV models. 

The science behind EV battery performance in cold weather is a fascinating interplay of complex chemical and physical processes. At its core, winter range reduction stems from fundamental changes in how batteries function when temperatures drop, creating a challenging environment for energy storage and delivery.

Cold temperatures impact the fundamental workings of EV batteries. The chemical reactions that enable battery function slow significantly in low temperatures, reducing energy flow. At the same time, physical processes within the battery encounter increased resistance, which further diminishes its ability to deliver power efficiently. These combined effects result in a noticeable reduction in driving range.

The most striking difference between EVs and traditional combustion engines lies in heat generation. Internal combustion engines produce substantial waste heat as a byproduct of their operation, allowing them to naturally warm the vehicle’s interior. EVs, by contrast, operate with far more efficient motors that generate minimal excess heat. This fundamental characteristic means that maintaining cabin temperature becomes a direct competition with driving range. Every kilowatt-hour used to warm the interior is a kilowatt-hour not available for propulsion, creating a unique challenge for EV performance in cold weather.

Heat pump technology emerges as a game-changing innovation in addressing these winter performance challenges. This ingenious system operates on principles similar to a refrigerator running in reverse, effectively transferring heat from the outside air even in cold conditions. By utilizing refrigeration and compression principles, heat pumps can achieve remarkable efficiency. They can generate three to four units of heat for every single unit of electricity consumed.

The performance advantages of heat pump technology are substantial. EVs equipped with heat pumps demonstrate significantly better winter performance, typically retaining around 83% of their range in freezing conditions. In contrast, vehicles without heat pumps struggle, maintaining only around 75% of their rated range. 

To help EV owners navigate the challenges of cold weather, Recurrent’s researchers and automotive experts recommend several practical strategies for maximizing performance during winter months.

Preconditioning the vehicle while it is still charging is an effective way to warm both the battery and the cabin without draining the battery’s energy. Additionally, using targeted heating methods, such as seat warmers and heated steering wheels, can provide comfort while reducing the reliance on energy-intensive cabin heating.

Moreover, setting the vehicle’s in-car navigation to charging destinations allows the battery to prepare for optimal charging conditions. For long-term storage, maintaining a charge level between 70% and 80% is ideal to preserve battery health.

Andrew Garberson, Recurrent’s head of research, emphasizes an important point stating, “EV owners can make small adjustments in their driving habits to largely negate the effects of cold weather.”

Read More: EV Batteries Last Longer Than Expected: New Study Show They Are More Durable Than We Think

Despite cold weather challenges, the study highlights that all modern EVs can deliver over 100 miles of range even in freezing temperatures—a testament to the rapid advancements in EV technology. Emerging innovations, such as improved battery chemistries, more sophisticated heat management systems, and expanding charging infrastructure, promise to further enhance winter performance and make EVs even more practical for all climates.

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