Embracing Electric Cars in the Cold Prairie: A Winter Wonderland Drive

As frigid temperatures sweep across Saskatchewan, the debate on the practicality of electric cars in the winter has become a hot topic. Two enthusiastic electric car owners, Tyler Krause and Matthew Pointer, recently shared their winter driving experiences on CBC's Blue Sky, shedding light on the perks and challenges of owning electric vehicles (EVs) in the chilly Canadian climate.

Tyler Krause, a board member of the Saskatchewan Electric Vehicle Association and founder of the Tesla Owners Club of Saskatchewan, passionately advocates for the winter prowess of his Tesla Model 3. According to Krause, the electric wonder heats up faster than any gas car he's ever owned, boasting reliability akin to a "phone or a computer on wheels." The convenience of no traditional engine starting ritual adds to the simplicity of the electric driving experience.

However, Krause acknowledges the winter Achilles' heel for EVs – the inevitable loss of driving range in freezing temperatures. While his Tesla Model 3 can confidently cover 500 kilometers on a single charge during the summer, the range shrinks to around 300 kilometers on cold winter days. Yet, with the growing charging infrastructure in the province, Krause remains confident, stating that it's still enough for most journeys.

Matthew Pointer, another proud Tesla Model 3 owner, echoes Krause's sentiment, declaring an electric vehicle to be the "best vehicle in these temperatures." Pointer emphasizes the simplicity of EVs, describing how he can leave his car unplugged overnight in -40°C weather, use a mobile app to preheat the car, and enjoy a cozy interior with heated steering wheel and seats. The convenience, according to Pointer, makes an electric vehicle a superior choice during the winter months.

While both Krause and Pointer acknowledge that battery-electric vehicles may not suit everyone, especially those traveling long distances in areas with limited charging infrastructure, they propose plug-in hybrid vehicles as a viable alternative. These hybrids, mandated by the federal government, provide the flexibility of driving like a traditional gas vehicle while offering some of the benefits of going electric, such as lower fuel costs.

Speaking of fuel costs, Krause estimates that charging an average-size EV battery at home (around 70 kilowatt-hours) from zero to 100 percent costs approximately $10, given an electricity rate of about 14 cents per kilowatt-hour. Pointer chimes in, highlighting the "insane" cost savings of driving an electric vehicle for five years. Both owners claim to have saved between $25,000 and $30,000 over this period in fuel and maintenance.

Despite the undeniable advantages, Krause and Pointer acknowledge the upfront cost barrier for longer-range electric vehicles. However, they remain hopeful that ongoing advancements in technology and increased adoption will eventually drive down these initial costs.

One noteworthy proposal from these electric car enthusiasts is the need for more charging stations in small towns across Saskatchewan. Recognizing that EV charging sessions take longer than a traditional gas fill-up, Krause suggests that towns could leverage this time to revitalize their main streets. Electric vehicle chargers could attract visitors who, while waiting, explore local restaurants, shops, and recreational areas, injecting life and business into these communities.

In conclusion, as Saskatchewan navigates the winter chill, electric car advocates like Tyler Krause and Matthew Pointer paint a picture of EVs as reliable, efficient, and even enjoyable in cold temperatures. While challenges persist, the promise of cost savings and a greener future, coupled with strategic infrastructure development, may pave the way for electric vehicles to become a common sight on the Prairie roads.

Summary..While both Krause and Pointer acknowledge that battery-electric vehicles may not suit everyone, especially those traveling long distances in areas with limited charging infrastructure, they propose plug-in hybrid vehicles as a viable alternative. These hybrids, mandated by the federal government, provide the flexibility of driving like a traditional gas vehicle while offering some of the benefits of going electric, such as lower fuel costsMatthew Pointer, another proud Tesla Model 3 owner, echoes Krause's sentiment, declaring an electric vehicle to be the "best vehicle in these temperatures." Pointer emphasizes the simplicity of EVs, describing how he can leave his car unplugged overnight in -40°C weather, use a mobile app to preheat the car, and enjoy a cozy interior with heated steering wheel and seats. The convenience, according to Pointer, makes an electric vehicle a superior choice during the winter months.