The Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) recently completed a real-world winter performance test to assess the effects of extreme cold on electric vehicle (EV) range and charging.
The test, conducted between Ottawa and Mont Tremblant in sub-zero temperatures, included 14 EV models that represent over two-thirds of Canadian EV sales. The results underscored the challenges that many Canadians face regarding EV performance in winter, with significant reductions in range and slower charging speeds.
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Key findings from the test revealed that EV range dropped between 14% and 39% compared to official estimates, with the Chevrolet Silverado EV and Polestar 2 showing the least reduction at 14%. The test also showed that more than two-thirds of Canadians cite winter range loss as a major obstacle to adopting EVs, with 65% of EV owners reporting reduced range in extreme cold.
In terms of charging performance, EVs added an average of 100 km of range in 15 minutes on DC fast chargers, although charging speeds varied significantly between models. The Tesla Model 3 performed the fastest, gaining over 200 km of range in the same time period. Despite advancements in EV technology, 53% of Canadian EV owners still prefer gasoline vehicles for long trips in extreme cold.
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The CAA also called for a standardized EV labeling system that includes winter performance ratings to help consumers better understand how different models perform in cold weather. As part of the test, the CAA provided several practical tips to optimize EV performance in winter, including preconditioning the vehicle while plugged in, removing snow and ice to reduce weight, using heated seats instead of cabin heaters, and parking indoors to improve battery efficiency.
The findings from this test contribute to the CAA’s ongoing efforts to provide impartial information on EV performance and assist consumers in making informed decisions. Full test results, including a breakdown of each vehicle’s performance, are available in the CAA’s EV Buyer’s Guide.
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