General

Simple step helps EVs power through the cold

Winter weather has arrived in the Omaha metro area, and drivers of electric vehicles (EVs) may begin to notice a seasonal dip in their cars’ performance. Examples include reduced range, slower charging and longer warm-up times.  

But there’s a simple step EV owners can take to stay ahead of the cold: battery preconditioning. 

“Cold temperatures can significantly affect how your EV performs,” said Bridgett Petzoldt, Product Manager at Omaha Public Power District. “Fortunately, most EVs today come equipped with tools to help mitigate those effects; and preconditioning is one of the most effective.” 

Preconditioning is the process of warming up your EVs battery before you drive or charge. The process is typically managed through the vehicle’s mobile app or dashboard settings. 

 When scheduled in advance, especially while the vehicle is plugged in, preconditioning uses grid power to bring the battery to its optimal temperature, preserving the vehicle’s stored energy for driving. 

Improve performance, comfort

Preconditioning can help: 

• Maximize your vehicle’s driving range in cold weather 

• Speed up DC fast-charging sessions 

• Improve cabin comfort without draining the battery 

“Think of it like warming up your car in the driveway,” Petzoldt said. “Only smarter – and better for your battery.” 

For customers who don’t have access to home charging, preconditioning still offers benefits. Even a short warm-up before heading to a public charger can improve charging speed and efficiency, helping drivers get back on the road faster. 

OPPD encourages EV owners to explore their vehicle’s battery preconditioning features before the coldest months arrive. Most systems allow drivers to set a daily departure time, ensuring the battery and cabin are ready to go—without sacrificing range. 

“EVs are built for all seasons,” Petzoldt added. “With just a little preparation, they can handle Nebraska winters just fine.” 

Thinking about making a change?

If you’re thinking about making the switch to an EV, you can learn more about EVs and whether they’re right for you by visiting OPPD’s Electric Vehicles page, which contains a wealth of information about how EVs work, plus what you need to know about operating, charging and traveling in an EV.

OPPD’s EV Calculator is a good place to start. It can help you determine – based on your driving habits, electricity use and other factors – whether an EV is the vehicle for you.