Michigan Winter Electric Vehicle Charging FAQs

Cold weather can affect your electric vehicle's performance, especially when temperatures dip below 60-80°F. In extreme cold, you might notice a drop in your range by around 20% on average. Don't worry, though! Once things warm up, your range will bounce back to normal. To help conserve energy, it's a good idea to use seat and steering wheel warmers rather than cranking up the heat if you can help it. Unlike gas-powered cars, which generate heat as they run, EVs don't have that same benefit. Plus, many EVs offer an app that lets you preheat the cabin while your car is still plugged in, keeping the battery full and your ride cozy!

As we mentioned above, you might notice a slight decrease in range for your EV in cold temperatures. Again, this isn't anything to be seriously worried about, as gas-powered cars will also have about a 15% drop in range in extreme cold. However, it may provide some extra peace of mind if you can plan ahead for your charging stops when going on longer trips. You can do this by researching the charging stations along your route before you leave, so that you know when and where to stop. You should also keep in mind that charging your EV might take a bit longer than usual, so if you plan to stop, make sure you allot a little extra time to let your car charge. A great way to combat this is to charge your battery from home before you leave as much as possible, so that you can wait longer between charging stops.

There are many ways for you to protect your EV from cold weather, even in the harsh Michigan winters! In general, it's always a good idea to park your vehicle inside whenever possible. Parking your car inside a garage or under an awning can help keep the snow off it, which will make it less cold overall. If you do get caught in the snow, make an effort to clear the snow off as soon as possible. Before you hit the road, give your electric vehicle a grace period to get warmed up. By allowing your car to get warm before you drive, you'll be able to ease into your drive, causing less stress on the battery. This technique, known as "preconditioning" can help protect your EV.

If you're in the Fowlerville area and interested in exploring our selection of electric vehicles, stop by Dick Scott Motor Mall of Fowlerville! We have a variety of EV options like the Wrangler 4xe and the Grand Cherokee 4xe, each offering a unique combination of performance and sustainability. Whether you prefer shopping from the comfort of your home or visiting us in person, we've made it easy to browse and find the perfect EV for your needs. You can even take our models for a test drive to get a feel for the driving experience. If you have questions or want to get started, simply fill out the form below to contact us—we're here to help!