Freezing temperatures across the central US have significantly reduced electric vehicle (EV) range and left drivers facing long waits at charging stations. Teslas have been found running out of juice in Oak Brook, Illinois, near Chicago, while in long lines for plugs at a Supercharger station. Studies found that range loss varies from 10% to 36%, and EVs do not charge as quickly in extreme cold.

Experts acknowledge that cold weather can be hard for EVs, but with some planning and adjustment, owners should be able to travel pretty much as normal. Lithium ions flow through a liquid electrolyte, producing electricity, but they travel more slowly through the electrolyte when it gets cold and do not release as much energy. This cuts into the range and can deplete a battery faster. The same happens in reverse, as electrons move more slowly, making the battery cannot accept as much electricity from a charging plug.

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