Winter Freeze Challenges EV Drivers with Battery Woes and Long Lines
The harsh winter freeze is presenting a unique set of challenges for electric vehicle (EV) owners across the United States. Amid freezing temperatures, EV drivers are grappling with significantly reduced battery life and lengthy waits at charging stations.
In Skokie, Illinois, a Tesla Supercharger station with 20 charging points was reported to be full for almost the entire day on Monday. The long wait times at charging stations have left some drivers, like Tesla owner Wes France, worried about their vehicles running out of power before securing a charging spot.
France recounted his experience of draining his car's battery down to 5% while searching for an available charger, eventually resorting to towing his car to a charging station.
The sub-zero temperatures are exacerbating the situation by impacting the efficiency of EV batteries. Darryl Johnson, an Uber driver, shared his frustration over the extended time required to charge his vehicle and the rapid depletion of the battery charge.
A 2019 study by AAA revealed that cold temperatures can temporarily reduce the range of EVs by more than 40% when interior heaters are used. Specifically, in 20-degree weather, the study found a 41% decrease in EV range with the heater on, compared to a 12% decrease when the heater was off.
The impact of the cold was evident in Rolling Meadows, Illinois, where several cars required towing at a charging station after their batteries died while waiting for open spots. Eddie Zipperstein, owner of Richards Body Shop, a certified Tesla service center, noticed a significant power drain in his own vehicle overnight due to the cold.
Zipperstein advised Tesla owners to park in garages if possible to keep their cars warmer and to precondition the battery for faster charging. He also recommended charging the vehicle before the battery drops below 30%.
These challenges have led some drivers, like Johnson, to reconsider their reliance on EVs, particularly in extreme cold conditions. He expressed hope for improvements in battery technology to better withstand harsh winter weather.
The situation underscores the need for advancements in EV battery technology and infrastructure to ensure reliability and convenience for EV drivers, especially in regions with severe winter conditions.