Brutal cold weather not only affects our physical well-being, but it can also have a severe impact on vehicles, often rendering them inoperable. The extreme temperatures can make starting cars difficult, and in some cases, can even cause permanent damage to them. This situation is particularly problematic for owners of electric vehicles (EVs), who face additional challenges when dealing with the cold.
Challenges for Electric Vehicle Owners
For electric vehicle owners like Jonathan Rosenberg from Edina, cold weather can significantly reduce battery range. Rosenberg, who drives a Tesla, has noticed up to a 25% decrease in range when dealing with low temperatures and strong winds. Charging an electric vehicle also becomes less efficient in the cold, with some drivers reporting a much faster depletion of battery life, requiring more frequent charging.
The chemical reactions within the battery that power electric vehicles slow down in freezing temperatures, making it harder for the vehicle to retain energy. Additionally, keeping the interior of the car warm by running the heater further drains the battery. Many Teslas have a feature that alerts drivers when they don’t have enough battery to reach their destination based on GPS calculations, helping to mitigate range anxiety in cold conditions.
Impact on Traditional Gas-Powered Vehicles
While electric vehicles face unique challenges, traditional gas-powered cars are also affected by extreme cold. Wilson Halley, the owner of Wilson’s Auto World in Minneapolis, reported a significant increase in battery sales over the weekend, highlighting how cold weather can drain the battery of regular cars as well. Halley emphasized that cold weather is a good time for car owners to get a battery replacement or schedule a tune-up to ensure the vehicle runs smoothly.
When facing extremely cold temperatures, having a car emergency kit is essential for all vehicle owners. Items like jumper cables or a portable jumper pack can be lifesavers in situations where the car’s battery dies. Preparing for the cold by checking on the battery and having the necessary tools can help prevent unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs.