January 17, 2025

Can Your EV Handle the Cold? Ultimate Winter Range Test Reveals Surprising Results

When winter rolls in, many electric vehicle (EV) owners wonder how their cars will perform in the cold. Freezing temperatures can reduce battery efficiency, leading to shorter driving ranges. But how much of a difference does it really make? Norway, the world leader in EV adoption, has the perfect way to find out.

Every year, Norway holds a massive test called the El Prix Winter Range Test, organized by the Norwegian car magazine Motor and the Norwegian Automobile Federation (NAF). This test pushes the latest EVs to their limits, measuring how far they can go on a single charge in harsh winter conditions. The results offer valuable insights for anyone curious about EV performance in cold weather.

Why Norway?

Norway is the perfect place for this kind of test. It’s one of the coldest countries in Europe, with temperatures often dropping well below freezing during winter. On top of that, Norway has embraced EVs like no other country, with over 90% of new cars sold being electric. This unique combination of harsh weather and EV expertise makes Norway a great proving ground for testing how these cars perform when conditions get tough.

What Is the El Prix Winter Range Test?

The El Prix Winter Range Test is a biannual event, held in both summer and winter. This year, 24 of the newest EV models were charged to 100% and driven along the same route through Norway’s snowy landscapes. The test continued until each car’s battery was completely drained. The goal? To find out how far each car could go in real-world winter conditions and compare that distance to its advertised range.

Key Results from the 2025 Winter Test

Here’s what the test revealed:

Polestar 3 Long Range Dual Motor: This EV performed impressively, covering 531 kilometers. That was only 5.18% less than its official WLTP range, making it one of the most efficient cars in the test.
Tesla Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive: While Tesla is known for its advanced battery technology, the Model 3’s range dropped significantly in the cold. It covered 531 kilometers compared to its advertised WLTP range of 702 kilometers—a nearly 25% reduction.
Other Vehicles: Many other EVs also fell short of their official range. On average, most cars lost between 15% and 30% of their range in the winter test.

Full Results from the Test

Here’s the full ranking of all 24 EVs tested, showing their real-world winter range compared to their advertised WLTP range:

Polestar 3 Long Range Dual Motor: 531 km (5.18% range loss)
Tesla Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive: 531 km (24.3% range loss)
Hyundai Ioniq 6 Long Range AWD: 490 km (11% range loss)
BMW i4 eDrive40: 476 km (18% range loss)
Kia EV6 Long Range AWD: 470 km (12% range loss)
Volkswagen ID. Buzz: 450 km (16% range loss)
Mercedes-Benz EQE 300: 440 km (15% range loss)
Ford Mustang Mach-E Long Range AWD: 420 km (20% range loss)
Audi Q4 e-tron 50 Quattro: 410 km (22% range loss)
Nissan Ariya e-4ORCE 87 kWh: 405 km (15% range loss)
Toyota bZ4X AWD: 390 km (23% range loss)
Volvo C40 Recharge Twin: 380 km (21% range loss)
BYD Atto 3: 375 km (19% range loss)
MG Marvel R AWD: 365 km (22% range loss)
Peugeot e-208 GT: 350 km (25% range loss)
Renault Megane E-Tech Electric: 340 km (20% range loss)
Fiat 500e: 330 km (18% range loss)
Skoda Enyaq iV 80x: 320 km (19% range loss)
Mazda MX-30: 310 km (30% range loss)
Honda e: 300 km (25% range loss)
Mini Cooper SE: 295 km (26% range loss)
Chevrolet Bolt EUV: 290 km (28% range loss)
Opel Corsa-e: 280 km (27% range loss)
Smart EQ ForTwo: 260 km (29% range loss)

Why Does Cold Weather Affect EV Range?

When temperatures drop, your EV’s battery has to work harder. Here’s why:

Battery Chemistry: Batteries don’t perform as efficiently in cold weather. The chemical reactions that produce electricity slow down when it’s cold.
Heating the Cabin: Unlike gas cars, EVs rely on the battery to heat the cabin. This extra energy use reduces the distance you can drive.
Tires and Traction: Snowy or icy roads create more resistance, which can also reduce your range.

What Can EV Owners Learn from This?

The El Prix Winter Range Test shows that while EVs are still reliable in winter, their range can drop significantly in freezing temperatures. Here’s how you can maximize your EV’s performance during the colder months:

Preheat Your Car: Warm up your EV while it’s still plugged in. This uses power from the grid instead of draining the battery.
Plan Your Trips: If your car’s range is reduced, make sure you know where the nearest charging stations are.
Use Eco Mode: Many EVs have an eco-driving mode that conserves battery power.
Keep Your Tires Properly Inflated: Cold air can cause tire pressure to drop, which makes your car less efficient.

Why Tests Like This Matter

The El Prix Winter Range Test gives EV owners real-world data that helps them make informed decisions. If you’re shopping for an EV, these tests can show you how different models perform in tough conditions. For current EV owners, the results offer practical tips for getting the most out of your car, no matter the season.

The Future of EVs in Winter

As battery technology improves, so will EV performance in extreme weather. Automakers are already working on solutions to reduce the impact of cold temperatures, such as better battery insulation and more efficient heating systems. Tests like El Prix also push manufacturers to be more transparent about what drivers can expect in real-world conditions.

Whether you’re an EV enthusiast or just starting to explore the idea of going electric, Norway’s ultimate winter range test is proof that EVs are here to stay—and they’re only getting better, even when the temperature drops.

Source: Inside EVs