7 tips for EVs in winter

EVs use more energy in winter

An EV really does consume more energy in winter. On the one hand, that’s because the chemical reactions in battery cells slow down at low temperatures, so the battery needs to be brought to its ideal operating range of 20–30°C (68–86°F), which itself requires energy. On the other hand, additional energy is used to heat the cabin in winter, which according to TCS adds around 10–20% energy use. Winter tests with various vehicles show that range reduction can be between 9–30% depending on the model, averaging about 18%. How to optimize your consumption in winter and still have good fast‑charging experiences in the cold—here are our tips.

Tip 1: Preheat while plugged in Because an electric motor produces far less waste heat than a combustion engine, the cabin has to be heated using energy from the traction battery. If you have a wallbox at home or at the office, it’s worth preheating the cabin while the car is still powered by external electricity. Many models let you set this via the vehicle app or the infotainment system.

Tip 2: Heat the cabin efficiently

Not all heating is the same. Seat and steering‑wheel heaters use significantly less energy than general air heating and deliver warmth exactly where it’s needed. With seat and steering‑wheel heating on, a cabin temperature of 19–21°C (66–70°F) is often sufficient. When it’s very cold outside, it also makes sense to use the already‑warmed recirculated air in the car instead of constantly bringing in cold fresh air from outside.

Tip 3: Switch on Eco mode

Perhaps the simplest step: Most EVs have an Eco mode. In this mode, energy is saved through gentler, reduced acceleration; limiting peak motor power and top speed; disabling all‑wheel drive; and reducing HVAC output (e.g., heating/cooling just for the driver). Check your owner’s manual to see exactly what your EV’s Eco mode includes.

Tip 4: Weight, roof racks, tire pressure

Classic energy‑saving tips also apply to EVs. Unnecessary weight and roof attachments increase consumption. On vacation, it’s worth removing a roof box after you arrive. Increasing tire pressure by about 0.2 bar can also reduce consumption without compromising comfort or safety.

Tip 5: Fast‑charge with a warm battery

Because the chemical reactions in the cells are sluggish in the cold, the battery management system will limit charging power to prevent damage.

To really enjoy fast charging, the battery first needs to be warmed to its optimal charging temperature (more on this in this blog post). That happens either through a longer drive or, if available, by preconditioning the battery before you arrive at a DC fast charger. Plan your charging so you reach the charger with a well‑warmed battery—for a ski day, for example, charge either right at the end of the drive before you hit the slopes, or at the end of the return trip home.

Tip 6: Coast and use regenerative braking

This tip applies year‑round. With conscious driving and the right regen settings, you can save—or even recover—energy. Choose the optimal regen level based on route and traffic. On longer drives at steady speed, a low regen level often makes the most sense; it’s most efficient to use your momentum without regen—this is called coasting. In the city and in the mountains, a higher regen level pays off because frequent braking and downhill sections allow more energy recovery. Pro tip: On snow‑covered roads or in tricky conditions, it’s worth setting a lower regen level to avoid wheel lock‑up.

On longer drives at steady speed, a low regen level often makes the most sense; it’s most efficient to use your momentum without regen—this is called coasting. In the city and in the mountains, a higher regen level pays off because frequent braking and downhill sections allow more energy recovery. Pro tip: On snow‑covered roads or in tricky conditions, it’s worth setting a lower regen level to avoid wheel lock‑up.

Tip 7: Avoid unnecessary trips

Lastly: In cold weather, it’s tempting to take the heated EV for a short hop to the bakery or shop next door. But on very short trips, range can drop by up to 50%. Some of these journeys—and the kilowatt‑hours they’d use—can definitely be avoided if you cover short distances by bike or on foot.

Conclusion

Winter costs EVs range. But if you follow these tips, you’ll stay cool even in the cold season. Preheat while plugged in, use seat and steering‑wheel heating, drive in Eco mode, keep an eye on weight and tire pressure, fast‑charge only with a warm battery, and drive proactively—coasting and using regen—and you’ll noticeably cut consumption, often by double‑digit percentages. Combined with the simple rule “short trips are better on foot or by bike,” you’ll reach your destination comfortably, with quicker charging and more charge left—even in freezing weather.