EV charging in cold weather

In the UK, it seems like we’re never far from a cold spell, so you might be wondering how electric vehicle (EV) charging is affected by cold weather. The winter months have a slight impact on how your EV charging works, but luckily there are ways to avoid much inconvenience. 

Fully electric vehicles are powered by lithium-ion batteries, which use chemical reactions to store and release electricity to power the vehicle. When temperatures drop, this process is slowed, which can result in a reduced total range of between 10% and 20% (Autotrader, 2022). It can also mean longer charging times; overnight charging might need a few additional hours, and rapid charging could increase from the usual 30 minutes to an ever-so-slightly longer 45 minutes. 

Is it safe to charge your EV in the rain or snow? 

There’s no need to worry about the safety of charging your EV in cold weather conditions; protective layers and covering shields on both the charger and vehicle mean rain and snow are incredibly unlikely to enter equipment or interfere with the charging process. 

Tips for EVs in winter weather 

There are some steps you can take to keep your EV running efficiently in cold weather. Warming up the car and battery before setting off is one way to help your EV perform at its best. Plugging in your EV when it’s pre-warming heats the cabin using electricity from the mains rather than the battery, which saves charge.  

Driving efficiently, going at a steady speed and avoiding sudden acceleration or braking will prevent the EVs charge from decreasing too quickly. Another tip is to cover your EV when parked, or park in an enclosed garage if possible. The warmer the car is when parked, the better it’ll hold its charge, meaning less top-ups will be needed. 

EV charging installation 

Charging an EV in cold weather requires a few general maintenance steps to keep everything running smoothly. A home charger keeps your EV topped up and ready to go throughout the colder months, and is a cost-effective and convenient charging option. 

Here at Mr Charger, we’re leading EV charging installation specialists for homes and workplaces. We have friendly teams based all over the UK, providing handy advice, quick installation and service with a smile. To chat about EV charging point options or receive a quote, call 0800 669 6159 or email install@mrcharger.co.uk.