WINTER EV CHARGING: HOW TO WASTE TIME AND MONEY ON DCFC!

EV Channels Review

This video details a real-world winter charging experience with a Chevrolet Bolt EV in sub-freezing temperatures. The primary takeaway is that a cold battery significantly degrades DC fast charging rates, resulting in much longer charging times and higher costs. The reviewer experienced an initial charge rate of only 14 kW, far below the expected 50-125 kW, and the session was cut short by the charger's 45-minute limit, delivering only 17 kWh. The reviewer emphasizes the importance of warming the battery, ideally by driving for an hour or two, before attempting DC fast charging in winter. The video also highlights infrastructure issues, noting a shortage of dedicated parking spaces for the available charging units, leading to potential conflicts and unavailability. The reviewer plans a future test to evaluate the effectiveness of a Level 2 pre-charge for battery warming.