In harsh winter conditions, could the low-temperature operation of electric vehicles become a major concern? Is it true that colder regions are unsuitable for purchasing electric vehicles? These questions have long troubled us. In an era where global sales of new energy vehicles are surging and market penetration has exceeded 50%, electric vehicles have undoubtedly become a mainstream choice when buying a car. However, the performance of electric vehicles in low-temperature environments remains a hot topic.
To address this, a winter performance test was conducted. Through comprehensive testing in low-temperature environments ranging from -10°C to -20°C, more than 50 highly popular and high-selling new energy vehicle models were selected. These vehicles covered three major powertrain systems: pure electric, plug-in hybrid, and range-extended hybrid. From technical performance to user experience, the goal was to provide a thorough demonstration of their capabilities in cold conditions.
Testing Range Performance
Driving range is the top concern for consumers when using electric vehicles in cold weather. The test results showed that even in extreme cold, the range achievement rate of most models remained above 50%, which demonstrates significant progress made by new energy vehicle manufacturers in technological development. Notably, hybrid vehicles performed exceptionally well in this test, with range achievement rates generally exceeding 84.3%, showcasing the superior adaptability of their powertrain architecture in cold conditions.
Although pure electric models experienced some range reduction in low temperatures, they were still able to meet the daily commuting needs of most users, thanks to advanced battery thermal management systems and vehicle insulation designs. Meanwhile, range-extended hybrids demonstrated the advantages of combining electric and fuel-driven systems, offering greater range flexibility in cold climates and alleviating users’ concerns about low temperatures.
| Pure Electric | ||||
| No. | Model | Manufacturer’s suggested price | Test temperature | Battery life achievement rate |
| 1 | BMW i5 | 439,900-539,900 RMB | -15℃~-10℃ | 55.20% |
| 2 | Galaxy E5 | 109,800-145,800 RMB | -25℃~-20°C | 53.90% |
| 3 | Qin PLUS | 79,800-179,800 RMB | -20°C~-15°C | 52.90% |
| 4 | Zeekr MIX | 279,900-299,900 RMB | -20°C~-15°C | 51.90% |
| 5 | Zeekr 7X | 229,900-269,900 RMB | -20℃~-15°C | 51.70% |
| Hybrid | ||||
| No. | Model | Manufacturer’s suggested price | Test temperature | Battery life achievement rate |
| 1 | Song PLUS | 129,800-189,800 RMB | -15°℃~-10℃ | 97.10% |
| 2 | Song L DM-i | 135,800-175,800 RMB | -20°C~-15°C | 91.60% |
| 3 | Wuling Starlight | 79,800-109,800 RMB | -20°C~-15°C | 87.70% |
| 4 | Wuling Starlight S | 99,800-129,800 RMB | -20°C~-15°C | 86.90% |
| 5 | DENZA D9 | 339,800-660,000 RMB | -20°C~-15°C | 84.30% |
Feasibility of Buying EVs in Cold Regions
The test data indicated that while low temperatures do have an impact on electric vehicles, it is not sufficient to deter consumers from choosing them. Modern new energy vehicles have achieved significant breakthroughs in battery technology, thermal management systems, and overall vehicle design. Particularly in models optimized for colder regions, manufacturers have implemented features like battery heating systems and improved vehicle insulation, significantly enhancing range performance in low temperatures.
Therefore, colder regions are not unsuitable for purchasing electric vehicles. Instead, the key lies in selecting the right model based on individual needs. For instance, users focused on daily commuting can opt for well-equipped pure electric models, while those requiring extended range might find plug-in hybrids or range-extended hybrids to be better choices.