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Cold Weather and EVs: What You Should Know

tesla model y 2021 01 blue exterior profile sedan scaled jpg Tesla Model Y | Cars.com photo by Christian Lantry

By now, the big differences between electric vehicles and gas-powered ones should be obvious: plug versus no plug, no fuel required versus fuel required … and so on. Some other differences may not be as obvious, such as how much cold weather affects the EV driving and ownership experiences. Spoiler alert: It’s a lot.

Related: Which Electric Cars Are Still Eligible for the $7,500 Federal Tax Credit?

As much of the country is plunged into Arendelle levels of frigid temperatures, ice and snow this week, electric cars may be feeling the sting more than other types of vehicles due to battery and charging issues that come up when temps drop.

Before you start singing that the cold doesn’t bother you anyway, check out our list of cold weather EV experiences, information and advice to make sure you’re ready.

How Well Do Electric Cars Work in Cold Weather?

Driving 3 EVs in Zero-Degree Temps: What Could Go Wrong?

Our Tesla Model Y in Cold Weather: How Was Range Affected?

Your Guide to EV Batteries: Premature Death, Range Loss and Preservation

When Should I Precondition an EV?

Electric Cars FAQs: What They Are and How They Work

EV 101 Video: Preserving Your EV’s Battery

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Jennifer Geiger
News Editor Jennifer Geiger joined the automotive industry in 2003, much to the delight of her Corvette-obsessed dad. Jennifer is an expert reviewer, certified car-seat technician and mom of three. She wears a lot of hats — many of them while driving a minivan.
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