January 17 2024,
A freezing Canadian winter can be hard on any vehicle, but could an electric model be the better choice than a traditional gas-engine vehicle when it comes to driving in cold weather? The answer is a resounding yes—many aspects of electric vehicle (EV) engineering can handle the toughest of weather conditions with ease.
1) Reliable Morning Starts
Unlike gas-powered vehicles that need time to warm up in extreme cold, a charged EV is ready to go! That means no more worries about being left stranded with a failed ignition and no need to let the engine warm up before starting your journey. Many EVs come with remote starters or a timer that allows you to pre-set the engine start time. This option allows an EV to draw from the power grid rather than from the battery while starting. A more dependable startup system is just one of the benefits of owning an EV.
2) Lithium-Ion Battery Technology
Batteries used in gas-powered vehicles are made using a combination of lead and liquid acid, and when the temperature drops, the acid can thicken and even start to freeze. That’s why starting a gas-powered car can be difficult in extreme cold, and freezing can permanently damage the battery. Electric vehicles don't have this problem, as their modern lithium-ion batteries have no liquid cells that can freeze.
3) Regenerative Braking Systems
Most EVs use a system known as regenerative braking that’s more reactive than traditional braking systems, and provides more control when conditions are slippery. Regenerative braking converts the vehicle's forward momentum energy into battery charge when the brakes are applied. The energy that’s reclaimed during braking not only increases driving range, it can also be used to power climate control, heated seats, and other systems that are essential for winter comfort.
4) No Oil Worries
Gas-powered vehicles rely on oil to protect their moving parts, and when the temperature plummets, the oil becomes thicker and less lubricating—especially before the engine has warmed up. Starting a gas vehicle in cold winter weather puts heavy stress on the engine, shortening its life and increasing repair bills. Electric motors don't use oil for protection, so cold starts won’t cause any extra wear and tear on an EV.
5) No Refuelling
No one likes standing outside by a gas pump to fill a tank in subzero temperatures, even for a few minutes. With an electric vehicle, you can quickly attach the charging cable and get back into the warm cabin while the battery charges. Or, go enjoy a hot coffee while you wait. Better yet, plan for overnight charging, so you never have to worry about refuelling in the cold!
6) Near-Instant Acceleration
Electric powertrains are renowned for their high levels of torque available at low speeds, providing near-instant acceleration at the touch of the pedal. When used carefully, quick acceleration allows for better handling and control in icy conditions and can help you steer out of a skid more easily.
Prepare for Winter With an EV
After reviewing the cold, hard facts it's clear that EVs make an attractive choice for winter driving. To explore the benefits that all-electric driving brings in any season, reach out to your local Dilawri-franchised dealership, and we'll help you find the ideal EV for your needs.
