As temperatures drop, new research from the Motability Scheme’s EV Transition Tracker reveals that winter conditions could be cooling enthusiasm for electric vehicles, with widespread fears about range and charging stalling uptake.
Ahead of the launch of the Tracker next week, early findings have shown that the colder weather in winter months could be deterring many from switching to an EV. Around three in ten (29%) drivers believe electric car range drops in the winter, while a quarter (25%) believe cold weather slows charging speeds.
The research highlights that these worries are not limited to those not considering an EV; they are affecting drivers who are otherwise open to switching. Almost a quarter (23%) of those who don’t yet own an EV but would consider buying one think the cold weather reduces EV range while 22% think it reduces EV charging speeds.
Real-world behaviour reinforces these perceptions. Data from the Motability Scheme's Go Charge app shows that customers charge their vehicles around 16 per cent more often in the colder winter months than in summer, reflecting the natural reduction in battery efficiency at lower temperatures.
For disabled drivers on the Motability Scheme, who rely on their vehicle for their independence and essential daily journeys, the risk of winter disruption or unexpected costs is also a critical deterrent. Concern around the impact of cold weather on EV performances is even higher among these drivers – two fifths (42%) think cold weather reduces EV driving ranges and a third (33%) think it reduces their charging speeds.
Drivers without access to home charging are most exposed
Reliance on public infrastructure in winter, with its higher tariffs and variable reliability, risks reinforcing the perception among some that EVs are expensive and difficult to run.
Concern over the impact of cold weather among those without the ability to charge an EV at their property is slightly higher than those who have a charge point installed at home. Among those without, 27% say cold weather makes the range of EVs worse while 23% say it reduces their charging speeds. In comparison, a fifth (20%) of those with a home EV charging point say the same for both metrics.
The Motability Scheme leases vehicles to disabled people in exchange for their enhanced disability allowance, providing freedom and independence. A smooth transition to electric vehicles is important so that disabled people aren’t left behind. Last year, the Scheme removed premium brand vehicles and made an ambitious commitment to half of all cars leased would be British-built from 2035.
Andrew Miller, CEO of Motability Operations, which runs the Scheme, said:
“Cold weather is giving a lot of drivers cold feet about electric cars. We have supported thousands of people with the transition to electric vehicles, so we see the reality of these challenges first-hand. To support the next generation of drivers to make the switch to electric, we need to focus on the real experiences people have using these vehicles, especially in winter, and make sure they feel supported, informed and confident all year round.”
Motability Operations believes that a stronger focus on supporting drivers through the realities of EV ownership, particularly during winter, alongside the increased rollout of accessible charging close to home, will be essential to keeping the EV transition on track.
Top tips for winter EV driving:
- Pre-condition while plugged in: Schedule your car to warm up its cabin and battery while it is still connected to your home charger. This uses mains electricity rather than battery power, ensuring you leave with a full range and a warm car.
- Heat the person, not the car: Heating the entire cabin is energy-intensive. Using heated seats and steering wheels is a much more efficient way to stay warm without draining the battery.
- Check your tyres: Cold temperatures can cause tyre pressure to drop, creating more friction and reducing driving range. Checking pressure regularly ensures the vehicle rolls as efficiently as possible.
- The 80% rule: For everyday driving, stop charging at 80%. Charging slows down significantly after this point to protect the battery, so stopping early saves time and money. Save 100% charges for long trips only.
- Use ‘Eco’ mode: Most EVs have an Eco mode that adjusts power to conserve energy and improves handling on slippery winter roads by smoothing out acceleration.
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