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AAA Study Reveals Temperature Impacts on EV and Hybrid Efficiencies and Costs

Cold and hot weather can significantly reduce efficiency and increase operating expenses

WALNUT CREEK, Calif. (May 1, 2026) - A new study by AAA shows extreme temperatures reduce efficiency and range, as well as increase operating costs for electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids.

The study found cold weather has the largest impact, especially for EVs, causing notable reductions in MPGe and range. Hybrids experience smaller but still significant penalties in cold conditions. Heat also affects performance, with both EVs and hybrids experiencing efficiency losses at around 95°F due to cabin cooling and thermal management; the extent of these effects varies by vehicle and its control strategies.

Key Findings:   

Impact of hot temperatures (95°F):   

  • Hybrid vehicles experience a 12% decrease in fuel efficiency (miles per gallon, MPG).  
  • EVs show a 10.4% reduction in efficiency (MPGe, miles per gallon of gasoline equivalent) and an 8.5% loss of driving range compared to moderate temperature (75°F) conditions.  

Impact of cold temperatures (20°F):   

  • Hybrids lost 22.8% in fuel economy.  
  • EVs demonstrated a 35.6% drop in MPGe and a 39% decrease in driving range.   

Impacts of cold temperatures (20°F) on operating costs:   

  • Hybrids showed an increase in fuel cost of $28.44 per 1,000 miles.  
  • EVs experienced an increase in operating costs of $32.11 per 1,000 miles when charged at home electricity rates and $76.93 per 1,000 miles when using public charging.

Impacts of hot temperatures (95°F) on operating costs:   

  • Hybrid operating costs increased by $13.02 per 1,000 mi.
  • For EVs using home charging, operating costs rose by $6.78 per 1,000 mi, while public charging costs climbed $16.25 per 1,000 mi.   

Powertrain Cost Comparison:  

  • Cold operation (20°F) showed the largest cost gap: EVs cost $36.19 less per 1,000 miles at home electricity rates, but $86.26 more using public chargers than hybrids.  
  • At high temperatures (95°F), EVs were $46.11 cheaper per 1,000 miles at home electricity rates, but $41.00 more expensive at public charging rates compared to hybrids. 

“EVs are efficient in moderate temperatures but lose significant range in the cold,” said AAA Mountain West spokesperson Doug Johnson. “We expected this from our previous research, but were surprised by the 23% reduction in fuel economy for the hybrids in cold temperatures. Drivers should consider climate, energy costs, and driving patterns when choosing a vehicle that best fits their lifestyle.”  

AAA shares tips to maximize EV and hybrid efficiency and manage costs:   

  • Factor climate into vehicle choice: Cold conditions increase energy demand for both powertrains, but EVs are more affected due to battery performance limitations and the need for cabin heating. Drivers in cold-climate regions should plan for reduced range and more frequent charging stops.   
  • Budget for seasonal cost changes: Winter raises energy use across all powertrains. EV cost increases are most pronounced when relying on higher-priced public charging; hybrids will consume more fuel due to engine warm-up and heating demands.   
  • Manage efficiency in hot weather: At high temperatures, air conditioning and thermal management can reduce efficiency for both EVs and hybrids; impacts are often smaller than in cold weather.   

Media Toolkit

Video soundbites are available and can be downloaded here: Key Findings; Hybrids vs EVs; Temperature Impact. The spokesperson is Doug Johnson, AAA Mountain West Group.

About AAA Mountain West Group

AAA Mountain West Group is one of the most trusted membership organizations, proudly serving over 6.8 million Members across Alaska, Arizona, Montana, Nevada, Northern California, Utah, and Wyoming. Named one of Forbes’ Most Trusted Companies in America, AAA delivers unmatched expertise and value through roadside assistance and electric vehicle (EV) resources, along with comprehensive auto repair, travel, insurance, financial, and home security services. Powered by 5,300 dedicated Team Members, AAA is on a mission to revolutionize solutions that help our Members.

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