Electric Cars are the Best in Winter Warriors Defying Frigid Temperatures

With the federal government aiming to phase out new gas-powered vehicle sales in the next decade, many drivers are wondering about the performance of electric cars on cold Prairie days. Two electric car enthusiasts shared their experiences on CBC’s Blue Sky with host Leisha Grebinski.

As the federal government gears up to phase out new gas-powered vehicles, concerns arise about how vehicles, particularly electric cars, fare in the harsh winter conditions, especially in regions like Saskatchewan. However, advocates in the province argue that electric cars shine even in frigid temperatures, offering a superior driving experience.

Winter Wonders of Electric Cars

Tyler Krause, a board member of the Saskatchewan Electric Vehicle Association and founder of the Tesla Owners Club of Saskatchewan, expressed his love for driving electric cars in winter. He highlighted the quick heating and reliability, comparing it to a “phone or a computer on wheels.” Despite a reduction in range during frigid temperatures, Krause emphasized the confidence provided by the growing charging infrastructure in the province.

Matthew Pointer, also a Tesla Model 3 driver, praised the simplicity and convenience of electric vehicles in winter. Preheating the car with a mobile app, and enjoying a toasty warm interior with heated steering wheels and seats, adds up to a superior driving experience.

Alternatives Solutions

While both enthusiasts acknowledged that electric cars may not suit all drivers in the province, especially those covering long distances in areas with limited charging infrastructure, they suggested plug-in hybrid vehicles as a viable alternative. Krause noted that these hybrids, part of the federal government’s mandates, combine the convenience of a gas vehicle with some electric benefits, including lower fuel costs.

Cost Savings and Infrastructure Needs

Discussing the financial aspects, Krause and Pointer highlighted significant savings in fuel and maintenance costs over five years. However, they acknowledged the upfront expense of longer-range electric vehicles as a potential barrier. To encourage more electric vehicle adoption, they proposed increasing charging stations in small towns, revitalizing main streets, and promoting local businesses during charging sessions.

In the evolving landscape of automotive technology, electric cars seem to be gaining traction, particularly in the challenging winter conditions of Saskatchewan.

Range Challenges in Winter

Krause, while acknowledging the loss of driving range in extremely cold temperatures, notes that it doesn’t undermine the overall appeal of electric cars. A Tesla Model 3, for instance, may cover 500 kilometers on a single charge in the summer but experiences a decrease to around 300 kilometers in winter. Nevertheless, Krause contends that, with the current charging infrastructure, this range is sufficient for confident travel within the province.

Plug-in Hybrids options

Both Krause and Pointer acknowledge that electric cars may not be suitable for all drivers, particularly those covering long distances in regions with limited charging infrastructure. However, they propose plug-in hybrid vehicles, which combine the benefits of gas and electric, as a viable alternative. These hybrids, included in the federal government’s mandates, provide a compromise between conventional gas vehicles and fully electric ones, offering lower fuel costs.

Cost Savings and Infrastructure Expansion

Discussing the financial aspect, Krause and Pointer emphasize the substantial savings in fuel and maintenance costs over five years. Despite the upfront cost of longer-range electric vehicles, the long-term economic benefits are substantial. To further encourage electric vehicle adoption, they advocate for more charging stations in small towns, envisioning a revitalized main street culture with visitors exploring local businesses during charging sessions.

Electric Cars Winter conditions in Saskatchewan

In the challenging winter conditions of Saskatchewan, electric cars emerge as winter warriors, defying frigid temperatures. Advocates like Krause and Pointer showcase not only the adaptability of electric cars but also the transformative impact they can have on local economies through increased charging infrastructure. As the automotive landscape evolves, electric cars continue to prove their mettle, even in the harshest winter climates.