Every electric or gasoline car loses efficiency in the cold, but EVs feel it most when battery power goes to cabin heating. Recent studies from Recurrent show that average winter range drops to about seventy eight percent of the original rated distance. For a car rated at three hundred miles, that could mean just two hundred thirty four miles in freezing weather.

This range loss happens for a few reasons, from cold batteries to higher rolling resistance and changes in driving style. The biggest factor is traditional cabin heaters, which draw directly from the main battery pack and quickly eat up range. Heat pumps change the game by moving heat from the outside air—even in freezing conditions—into the cabin, instead of burning battery power. This more efficient system means less energy spent on comfort and more range left for driving. In some cars, the difference between a heat pump and a standard heater can be as much as ten to twelve miles per charge.

Today, most new electric vehicles come with a heat pump, but it is always smart to double check the specs—especially when shopping for a used model. Some of the most popular EVs with heat pumps include the latest Acura ZDX, Audi E Tron, BMW i4 and iX, Cadillac Lyriq, Chevy Blazer and Equinox, Ford F One Fifty Lightning, Hyundai and Kia models, Honda Prologue, Lucid models, Nissan Leaf (from 2026), Polestar 2 with the Climate Pack, and all recent Tesla models including Cybertruck.

Since equipment can vary by region and model year, always review the manufacturer’s website or ask the dealer directly. Reports like those from Recurrent give great insight into real world cold weather performance. For the ultimate winter driving experience, prioritize EVs with a heat pump, check battery health, and make sure you have good access to fast charging. With these features, winter range anxiety will become a thing of the past.