Adjusting Your Charging to Cold Weather: Our Tips Before Hitting the Road
January 20, 2026
Learn the Tricks for Better Use of Charging Stations
Is this your first winter driving an electric vehicle? Planning to travel in extreme cold? Your charging habits and use of stations may need some adjustments. Check out our tips to avoid surprises during your trips.
Video Tutorial: Tip to prevent a connector from getting stuck
Video Tutorial: What to do when a connector is stuck in your vehicle
Avoid Slower Charging and Improve Comfort
Learn more about preheating and battery preconditioning, which will help increase your comfort during trips and prevent slower charging times caused by cold temperatures.
Plan for Busy Stations and Map Your Route
In the winter, especially during the holiday season, the charging network is busier. Some popular stations experience higher traffic, which can lead to waiting lines. To avoid delays, use the Circuit électrique app’s trip planner and identify charging options along your route. When using a fast-charge station, remember to unplug your vehicle when the charge level reaches 80%, if possible. Beyond this point, charging slows down and costs more. By adopting this best practice, stations free up faster, reducing wait times for everyone!
Taking Care of the Network
Adopting good practices is a gift we give ourselves to keep a healthy public charging network! Here are a few tips for a smooth winter season.
During a fast charge, remember to unplug your vehicle when the charge level reaches 80%, if possible. After this point, charging slows down and the cost increases. By following this best practice, stations are freed up more quickly, reducing wait times for everyone!
Watch out for tickets! Always make sure to respect the signage at charging stations as well as any parking restrictions in effect.
Make sure to properly place the cables back on their holders and the connectors in their cases after charging. This helps prevent equipment damage caused by snow removal.
Remember to be courteous! Many EV drivers are experiencing their first winter. Don’t hesitate to lend a hand when needed—it helps everyone save time