AAA study confirms cold and hot temperatures affect efficiency, range in EVs
The findings reveal cold and hot temperatures affect efficiency and range in hybrids and EVs, but recommendations are helpful
Last updated 46minutes ago
- EVs show a 8.5% loss of driving range in hot temperatures
- Hybrids lose 22.8% in fuel economy in cold temperatures
- EVs are more affected due to battery performance limitations and the need for cabin heating
As far as studies go, the findings from an American Automobile Association aren’t very surprising, and very well could have Captain Obvious cited as the chief researcher. Still, the AAA’s look into how temperature affects electric vehicles and hybrids do put some numbers to an oft-mentioned shortcoming of the electrified powertrains (It should be noted, of course, that ICE vehicles also experience losses in efficiency when the thermometer climbs or plunges).
Researchers tested six vehicles — three EVs and three hybrids — at cold, moderate and hot temperatures using a chassis dynamometer with the vehicles’ HVAC set at 22°C (72°F) and the exterior temperatures at -6.5°C (20°F), 24 C (75°F) and 35°C (95°F). Here are some of the key findings followed by recommendations from AAA:
Hybrid vehicles experience a 12.0% decrease in fuel efficiency.
EVs show a 10.4% reduction in efficiency and an 8.5% loss of driving range compared to moderate temperature (24°C/75°F)
Hybrids lose 22.8% in fuel economy.
EVs demonstrate a 35.6% drop in MPGe and a 39.0% decrease in calculated driving range.
Hybrid operating costs increased by $13.02 per 1,609 km (1,000 miles).
For EVs using home charging, operating costs rose by $6.78 per 1,609 km (1,000 miles), while public charging costs climbed $16.25 per 1,609 km (1,000 miles).
Hybrids showed an increase in fuel cost of $28.44 per 1,609 km (1,000 miles).
EVs experienced an increase in operating costs of $32.11 per 1,609 km (1,000 miles) when charged at home electricity rates and $76.93 per 1,609 km (1,000 miles) when using public charging.
Cold operation showed the largest cost gap: EVs cost $36.19 less per 1,609 km (1,000 miles) at home electricity rates, but $86.26 more using public chargers than hybrids.
At high temperatures, EVs were $46.11 cheaper per 1,000 miles at home electricity rates, but $41.00 more expensive at public charging rates compared to hybrids.
Cold conditions increase energy demand for both powertrains, but EVs are more affected due to battery performance limitations and the need for cabin heating. Drivers in cold-climate regions should plan for reduced range and more frequent charging stops.
Winter raises energy use across all powertrains. EV cost increases are most pronounced when relying on higher-priced public charging; hybrids will consume more fuel due to engine warm-up and heating demands.
At high temperatures, air conditioning and thermal management can reduce efficiency for both EVs and hybrids; impacts are often smaller than in cold weather.
Precondition the cabin while plugged in, use targeted comfort features (seat and steering-wheel heat), keep tires properly inflated. For EVs, avoid sustained high speeds in extreme temperatures, and plan charging sessions to minimize unnecessary fast charging in cold weather.
EV operating costs depend heavily on electricity rates and where charging occurs. Home charging can help manage seasonal cost swings compared to frequent public charging.
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Andrew McCredie
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