How to Become a Charging Expert in the Cold with Elton

Your electric car's battery is affected by outdoor temperatures, but fortunately, it's very easy to manage. With Elton, you can charge along the road at over 85% of fast chargers in Norway, and you have everything you need to become a cold-weather charging expert!

First and foremost: your electric car uses more power in winter than the rest of the year. When NAF conducted a major range test for electric cars, they found that you can lose up to 30% of your range in winter. This is mainly because the battery gets cold, and a cold battery is less efficient at utilizing its power. At the same time, the motor needs to work a bit harder in snow and slush, and heating the cabin also uses power.

But if you follow these three tips, you'll quickly become an expert at charging in the cold!

1. Charge when the battery is warm

For best fast charging, charge when the battery is warm and as close to empty as you dare. Some new electric cars let you pre-heat the battery, but it can also be as simple as placing the charging stop towards the end of your trip. Remember that it's changes in speed that warm the battery, not maintaining a steady pace. If you're driving along E18 at a steady 100 km/h, the battery won't get as warm. Use Elton when planning your trip, and you'll find a charger at the right place and time for you.

2. Heat up the cabin while connected to the charging station

Both body and battery get cold in winter, that's no secret. But if you want to stay warm in the car, it's smart to heat up while you're connected to the charging station, so you don't drain the battery on your journey for heating. Turn on the heat and sit down at the nearest café or gas station while the car gets nice and warm. Monitor the charge level directly in Elton, so you're always in control.

3. Only charge to 80%, add an extra stop instead

Charge for shorter periods, but a bit more often. Electric cars take extra time for the last 20%, so once you've charged to 80%, just continue driving. With Elton, you have access to over 85% of all fast chargers in Norway right in one app, so finding chargers along the way is no problem. Did you know that with Elton you can start charging and pay at Mer, Tesla Superchargers, Circle K, and many, many more? Now you know! 😉

Bonus tip from Elton's CEO

"When you arrive at the charging stop, if there's space, use your own station! Charging speed is affected if multiple people are charging at the same station, so it goes slower for both who are connected," explains Jørgen. So if there's capacity at the charging stop, we recommend you take your own station – then charging goes faster for everyone!

Charge stress-free in the cold, download Elton