Cold weather significantly impacts EV charging speed and efficiency due to battery chemistry and thermal management systems.
Lithium-ion batteries charge slower in cold temperatures. Below 32°F, charging speed can reduce by 20-50% as the battery management system protects the cells.
Warming the battery before charging improves speed. Many EVs offer remote preconditioning while plugged in, using grid power instead of battery power.
Park in heated garages when possible, use scheduled charging during warmer parts of the day, and keep the vehicle plugged in to maintain battery temperature.