FYI: Leaving Your Electric Vehicle Parked for Weeks in a Cold Environment Might Not Be as Complicated as You Think
Upstate New York’s frigid winters can be brutal, ushering in freezing temperatures as early as Thanksgiving. Residents have various strategies to tackle the cold, from cozy wool socks to seeking warmer climates. However, electric vehicle (EV) owners often ponder an additional winter concern: how will their EV fare if left parked in the cold for weeks? It’s common knowledge that lithium-ion batteries, which power most EVs, falter in freezing temperatures. My personal experience with a Kia EV6 revealed some intriguing insights.
Unplugged Experiment
During a month-long trip from mid-December to early January that included Texas family visits and covering CES 2025 in Las Vegas, my wife and I left our Kia EV6 parked in our cold garage. Before departure, the car was charged to 80%, equating to 183 miles of range. With temperatures ranging from 54 to as low as 12 degrees Fahrenheit, the car remained unplugged and untouched by digital monitoring.
Surprising Results Upon Return
Upon returning after 28 days, we discovered the Kia EV6 had retained most of its charge, showing 180 miles at 78% charge—a negligible 2% drop. Even more fascinating was the vehicle’s onboard computer recalibrating to a full 183 miles again when checked moments later. These findings highlight that EVs can be left unplugged in chilly conditions without significantly losing battery power—though owners should always consult their manual for long-term storage guidelines.
EV Storage: What You Need to Know
Most EV manuals suggest keeping the vehicle plugged in when not in use for extended periods. This allows for automatic charge maintenance. Variations exist among manufacturers: while Hyundai advises keeping their cars plugged in, Ford recommends disconnecting the 12-volt battery and starting at a 50% charge for the Mustang Mach-E. Similarly, Tesla recommends a plugged-in state to conserve battery life while disabling power-consuming features like Sentry Mode.
Storage Comparisons: EVs vs. Gas Vehicles
Storing internal combustion vehicles over long periods poses its challenges, such as potential battery drain, gasoline evaporation, and fluid degradation. My EV6 handled storage exceptionally well, outperforming older gasoline vehicles in terms of readiness and battery maintenance following an extended hiatus.
Conclusion
In essence, parking an EV in cold conditions for several weeks might not pose significant issues. However, always adhere to your vehicle’s specific storage guidelines for optimal battery health. Feel free to share any cold-weather EV tips with us!
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By William Kouch, Editor of Automotive.fyi
