How Do EVs Manage In Extreme Cold Conditions?

In Folldal, Norway, 24 electric vehicles underwent extreme testing in temperatures as low as -32°C to determine which models were least affected by the cold.

The 2026 Norges Automobil-Forbund (NAF) Winter El Prix, held in collaboration with Motor, found that most vehicles maintained close to their stated charging times despite the severe weather.

Willem Groenewald, FIA Secretary General for Automobile Mobility and Sustainability, said: “The future of mobility is constantly changing. Providing consumers with essential data on new technologies, such as improved performance of EVs, is key for shaping selection and choice for road users.

“It is also testament to the adaptability of manufacturers to drive innovation forward to the ultimate benefit of consumers, not only in battery improvements but also in terms of safety standards.”

EV performance in the cold

Cold conditions can significantly affect EV performance as battery chemicals thicken and the heating systems face greater demand. The electrolyte inside batteries becomes more viscous, slowing ion movement and increasing internal resistance.

To prevent damage, batteries accept charge more slowly when cold. Many modern models mitigate this with preconditioning, which warms the battery before charging to allow faster power intake.

Unlike internal combustion engines that use waste heat to warm the cabin, EVs draw energy directly from their batteries—consuming up to two-thirds of additional energy in winter.

Impact on range

Every model tested showed a measurable decline in range compared with its official WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure) rating. The average reduction across the fleet was 38%, reflecting the extreme conditions rather than technological shortcomings.

Before testing, all vehicles were left outdoors overnight at -25°C to simulate real-world conditions faced by drivers in Nordic climates. Despite range losses, there were no major technical issues, and heating systems kept drivers warm and comfortable.

Tor Arne Litlere, NAF President, noted: “El Prix provides motorists with invaluable data and insight into how EVs truly perform when tested to their limit in the harshest Nordic conditions.

“Situation-based knowledge about deviations from WLTP range is a true value for members and road users from these tests.”

Charging performance

One of the most promising outcomes of the 2026 El Prix involved DC fast-charging. When drivers used preconditioning before connecting, most EVs achieved near their specified 10–80% charge times.

Several models demonstrated robust peak charging rates, some drawing 350 kW to 400 kW under optimal conditions. This reliability, even in freezing temperatures, carries significant importance for fleet operators and charging network providers, strengthening the case for EV adoption in northern climates.

Standout performers

In distance per charge, the Lucid Air Grand Touring led the pack, outperforming its nearest competitor by nearly 100 kilometres. However, it also registered one of the largest percentage drops from its lab-based range.

Smaller and more affordable EVs proved more consistent. The Kia EV2 prototype achieved 310 kilometres—only 24.8% below its target WLTP figure. The MG 6S EV and Hyundai Inster tied for best range retention, each losing just 29% of their claimed range.

The Changan DEEPAL S05 exactly matched its official 10–80% charging time at 23 minutes, while Kia’s EV4 and EV2 came within minutes of their factory specs despite sub-zero temperatures.

Expanding the El Prix

For the first time, the 2026 edition introduced the El Prix Co-Driver Programme, allowing FIA Member Clubs from Canada, Denmark, Iceland, Belgium, and Austria to join the testing. Their participation added valuable international perspective to the findings.

The insights gathered in Norway now hold practical relevance for fleet managers and policymakers across Canada and central Europe. The test runs twice a year—once in winter and again in summer—highlighting how EVs perform across extreme conditions.

The Future of Electric Cars in a Net Zero World

Sustainability LIVE: The Net Zero Summit plays host to EV LIVE this March in London, where EV leaders can explore a range of sustainability topics, including:

• Panel Discussion: The Future of Electric Cars in a Net Zero World
• Building the EV Charging Infrastructure - fireside conversation with Greg Davis, Chief Growth Officer, GRIDSERVE
• Panel Discussion: Transitioning to Electric Fleets
• Panel Discussion: Heavy Transportation and The Future of Electric HGVs

Find out more about EV LIVE.