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Charging Stations into Tesla Graveyard: Electric Cars in Cold Weather

  • EV Charging
  • Gareth Newman
  • 4 minutes

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What happens to electric cars in cold weather? Can Tesla keep its cool when the mercury drops? Chicago’s winter freeze served as a brutal reality check for electric car enthusiasts. You’ve likely encountered frozen handles on your Tesla or experienced issues with frozen windows, mirrors, or wipers. But as of lately, Tesla is grappling with a new challenge.

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For the past few years, Tesla has dominated the electric vehicle market. In 2023, Tesla retained that position. The Model Y, with over 1.23 million units sold between January and December, became the world’s best-selling vehicle in 2023, dethroning the likes of the Toyota RAV4 and Corolla. That’s no mean feat. But as Chicago and much of the Midwest plunged into a deep freeze, an avalanche of new questions snowballed into the scene.

via GIPHY

Teslas Turn into Popsicles in Chicago’s Deep Freeze 

Here’s what happened to electric cars in cold weather: As temperatures plummeted to negative double digits in recent days, charging stations have transformed into car graveyards in and around Chicago.

One Tesla user said, “We got a bunch of dead robots out here.”

It was reported that EV drivers are struggling to keep batteries charged. In certain instances, tow trucks were summoned to move the stranded cars. Areas experiencing extremely cold weather have reported hours-long lines and charging issues. As freezing temperatures left Tesla charging stations in Chicago filled with zombie cars, the question begs: what led to this situation?


The Cold Hard Truth 

Recent events served as a chilly wake-up call for EV owners, especially Tesla drivers. Tesla vehicles equipped with lithium-ion batteries tend to throw a chilly tantrum when facing below-freezing temperatures. Basic battery operations do not function optimally. Charging tends to slow down. Additionally, electric cars also tend to lose their driving range in similar conditions.

Tesla recommends maintaining the charge level above 20 percent in severe cold. Cold weather prompts increased energy usage for heating the battery and cabin, leading to increased energy consumption.

electric cars in cold weatherCredits: Mirjam Claus

In addition, Mark Bilek from the Chicago Auto Trade Association emphasized the importance of preconditioning the battery. This involves bringing the battery to the optimal temperature to facilitate a fast charge.

The irony is that the heat needed for charging comes from the battery itself. That means stranded Tesla drivers find themselves in a paradox—draining the battery just to charge it. Quite the dilemma, isn’t it?


Also Read: Tesla’s Problem in Cold Weather: Is There a Solution?


What Does Tesla Recommend?

electric cars in cold weatherCredits: Tada Images

According to Tesla, here are some important tips to follow while driving and charging in freezing temperatures. 

  • Cold weather zaps Tesla batteries: Expect shorter range and slower charging. 
  • Plug in your Tesla whenever possible: When plugged in, energy-demanding features use external power, preserving the vehicle’s battery for driving. 
  • Scheduled departure: Use the Scheduled Departure feature to charge and precondition your Tesla automatically. 
  • Precondition before driving: Warm up the battery for better performance. 
  • Watch for the snowflake icon: It means your battery is cold; go easy on the gas. 
  • Clear snow and ice: Stay safe and avoid frosty surprises. 

And here’s one additional tip from Way; 

  • Pack an emergency kit: Be prepared for winter’s unpredictable ways.

Does it Mean You Should Stop Buying EVs?

No, not necessarily. Yes, Chicago-area Tesla owners are having a rough time with their electric cars in cold weather. While the cold weather challenges highlighted are real and important to consider, they shouldn’t automatically disqualify electric vehicles for everyone. Battery technology is constantly evolving, with range improvements and cold-weather performance expected soon.


Also Read: Are Tesla Charging Stations Free? Read to Know More!


 

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