Electric Vehicle Owners Face Challenges in Winter Weather
Minnesotans driving electric cars are encountering difficulties in winter weather as the state aims for one in five vehicles to be electric by 2030.
Impact of Winter Weather on Electric Vehicles
Electric vehicle owners in Minnesota are experiencing challenges during the winter season. The state has set a goal of having one in five vehicles be electric by 2030. Trevor Gravko, a new electric vehicle owner, finds the immediate power of electric cars enjoyable to drive but faces difficulties when it comes to charging. It takes him around 45 minutes to go from 20% to 100% charge.
In addition to longer charging times, cold weather affects the mileage and battery performance of electric vehicles. When temperatures drop below zero, the travel range of electric vehicles can decrease by as much as 30%. This is due to the energy required to power the vehicle and warm the cabin.
The cold weather also leads to longer wait times at charging stations, potentially due to extended charging times caused by the colder temperatures. Some electric vehicle drivers express concerns about the availability of fast-charging docks in the metro area, as they are currently limited.
Overcoming Challenges for Electric Vehicle Adoption
Despite the challenges, many electric vehicle drivers still believe that the benefits outweigh the cons. Katie Slack, an electric vehicle owner, highlights the importance of taking care of nature and sees electric vehicles as a way to do so.
Experts suggest several strategies to mitigate energy loss and improve efficiency during winter. Warming up the car while it's still charging can help preserve energy, and relying on seat and steering wheel warmers instead of increasing cabin temperature can also be beneficial.
