Climate Control and Accessory Impact
Yes — heating, AC, and other accessories can noticeably affect range:
- Cabin Heating: Resistive heaters or heat pumps can add 3–8 kWh/100 mi in winter, reducing range by up to 30% in extreme cold.
- Air Conditioning: Typically adds 1–3 kWh/100 mi, depending on outside temperature and duration.
- Seat and Steering Wheel Heaters: More efficient than heating the entire cabin.
- Electronics: Infotainment, lighting, and other systems have a smaller impact but still draw power.
Using preconditioning while plugged in can minimize range loss.