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Five top tips to getting the most range out of your EV during winter
When the cold weather bites and the snow falls, follow our tips to get the most miles out of your electric vehicle
There are more electric cars on UK roads than ever, and today's EVs go much further on a charge than early models did. Even so, range is still one of the first things people ask about, especially once winter arrives.
The good news is that most of us drive far less than we think. Government travel data consistently shows that the typical UK car journey is short, well within the range of any modern EV, even on a cold day.
That said, cold weather does affect range. Batteries work less efficiently in low temperatures, and keeping you and the battery warm takes energy. Real-world data suggests drivers can expect to lose around 20% of their usual range when temperatures hit freezing, although this varies a lot from model to model. The loss is temporary, and range returns as the weather warms up.
On the DriveElectric website, every vehicle page shows our simple range 'worm' (pictured right / below), so you can see the expected winter range before you choose your next EV.
So how can you squeeze the most miles out of your electric car this winter? Here are our top tips.
1. Preheat the car and your battery
Heating a cold car takes a surprising amount of energy. If you warm the cabin while your EV is still plugged in, that energy comes from the mains rather than your battery, so you set off warm with a full charge. Most EVs let you do this from the manufacturer's app or set a regular departure time, and it works wherever you charge, including workplace charge points.
It's not just the cabin that likes to be warm. A cold battery runs less efficiently and charges more slowly, which can mean longer stops at a rapid charger. Many EVs can now precondition the battery on the way, often automatically when you set a rapid charger as your destination in the built-in sat nav, or with a manual button. Use it on any winter journey where you plan to top up.
2. Warm the people, not the whole car
Blasting hot air around the entire cabin uses a lot of power. Heated seats and a heated steering wheel warm you directly and use far less energy, so lean on those first and turn the main heating down once the car is comfortable.
If you're driving alone, close vents you don't need or use a driver-only climate setting if your car has one.
3. Ease off and use eco-mode
The faster you drive, the more energy you use, and that's true of every car. Dropping from 70mph to 60 or 65mph on the motorway can make a real difference to range, and gentler driving is safer in icy or wet conditions too.
Most EVs also have an eco or efficiency mode that softens acceleration and limits climate control. You can use it all year round, but you'll notice the benefit most in winter. Higher levels of regenerative braking can help as well, but take it easy on slippery roads.
4. Keep your battery topped up
In winter, some of your battery's energy goes on keeping the battery itself and the cabin warm, so starting with more charge gives you more breathing room. If you have a home charger, plug in overnight and schedule charging for cheaper off-peak hours.
For everyday driving, many manufacturers suggest keeping the battery between around 20% and 80%, then charging to 100% before a long trip. Some cars, particularly those with LFP (lithium iron phosphate) batteries, are fine or even better charged to 100% regularly. Check your handbook or app for your car's advice.
5. Check your tyres
As temperatures fall, the air in your tyres contracts and the pressure drops. Under-inflated tyres increase rolling resistance, which costs you range, so check your pressures regularly through the winter and inflate them to your vehicle's recommended level.
If you live somewhere with lots of cold, icy weather, winter or all-season tyres are worth considering. Their main benefit is grip and safety rather than range, but staying in control on cold roads matters more than a few extra miles.
Winter-ready from the start
A little planning goes a long way. Most of these habits take seconds, and once they're part of your routine you'll hardly notice the cold at all.
If you're choosing your next EV, it's worth thinking about winter before you sign. A heat pump, battery preconditioning and heated seats and steering wheel all help a car hold on to more of its range when the temperature drops. Our range worm shows the expected winter range for every car we offer, so you can pick one that comfortably covers your driving all year round. Browse our electric car lease deals.
Winter doesn't have to mean range worries. A warm cabin before you unplug, a gentler right foot and a quick tyre check will cover most of it. For everything else, our team is always happy to help. Get in touch.
Last updated: Nov 2026
Published: Oct 2023
EVs in winter FAQ
Can an EV's battery freeze?
It is highly unlikely that an EV's battery will freeze because the battery's chemical composition and operating temperature prevent it from reaching freezing temperatures. However, if the battery is damaged or has a malfunction, it is possible for the battery to freeze.
Can I use an EV in winter just like any other vehicle?
Yes, you can use an EV in the winter just like any other vehicle as long as you take the necessary precautions to ensure that the battery is charged and that the vehicle is prepared for the cold weather.
This may include keeping the battery charged, using winter tyres, and keeping the car's interior warm. Also remember to take cold weather appropriate clothing, just in case.
Is it safe to charge an EV in cold weather?
Yes, it is safe to charge an EV in cold weather. However, the battery may take longer to charge because the battery's performance can be affected by the cold.
It is also a good idea to keep the charging area clear of snow and ice to ensure that the charging process is not disrupted.
Will an EV's range be affected by cold weather?
Yes, cold weather can reduce an EV's driving range because the battery's performance can be affected by the cold. In addition, the use of heaters, headlights, and other electrical systems can drain the battery faster in cold weather.