The GMC Hummer EV is a quintessentially American solution to maximizing electric vehicle range: use the largest battery possible. It’s like hot rodding with a big battery instead of a big engine. The top-spec Hummer EV3X SUV boasts an impressive 312 miles of EPA-rated range from its massive 170 kWh battery.
However, real-world challenges can put this range to the test, as one intrepid driver found out. Tim Esterdahl of Pickup Truck + SUV YouTube channel embarked on a journey from Nebraska to Denver in the dead of winter. With temperatures plummeting into the negatives and snow blanketing the landscape, Tim faced a true test of the Hummer EV’s capabilities.
Setting off with a full charge of 285 miles, Tim carefully managed his energy consumption by preheating the cabin, adjusting the heater settings, and strategically planning his charging stops. Despite the cold weather reducing overall efficiency, the Hummer EV’s low center of gravity and regenerative braking helped maintain stability and control on the slippery roads.
After driving 90 miles to Cheyenne, Tim was left with only 98 miles of range remaining. The combination of highway speeds and frigid temperatures significantly impacted the vehicle’s efficiency, leaving Tim to ponder the success or failure of his journey. While he ultimately reached his destination on time, the need for additional charging stops and the higher cost of public charging highlighted the challenges of winter driving with a large electric vehicle.
In conclusion, while the GMC Hummer EV offers comfort and unique features, its big battery and heavy weight can present challenges for winter driving. Planning ahead, knowing where charging stations are located, and understanding the limitations of electric vehicles in cold weather are essential for a successful winter road trip. Despite the obstacles, electric vehicles can offer advantages in terms of comfort and traction that may outshine traditional gas-powered cars in winter conditions. Electric vehicles (EVs) have come a long way in terms of range and performance, but one area where they still struggle is in cold weather conditions. While EV manufacturers provide estimated ranges for their vehicles, there is often a big difference between what is promised and what you actually get when driving in the cold.
A recent test of an EV in Nebraska during the winter highlighted this issue. The GMC Hummer EV, a highly anticipated electric truck, was put to the test in sub-zero temperatures to see how it would perform. The results were eye-opening, with the truck’s estimated range taking a significant hit in the cold weather.
The test showed that the Hummer EV’s range decreased by a considerable amount when driven in cold temperatures. This is a common problem with EVs, as cold weather can affect the performance of the battery and reduce overall range. While manufacturers often provide estimated ranges based on ideal driving conditions, real-world testing in cold weather can paint a very different picture.
This test serves as a reminder that EV owners need to be aware of the limitations of their vehicles in cold weather. It’s important to plan for reduced range when driving in cold temperatures and to make sure that you have access to charging stations along your route. While EV technology continues to improve, cold weather remains a challenge for electric vehicles.
Overall, the test of the GMC Hummer EV in Nebraska during the winter highlighted the ongoing issue of reduced range in cold weather conditions. EV owners should be prepared for this limitation and plan accordingly when driving in cold temperatures. As EV technology continues to evolve, hopefully, we will see improvements in performance and range in all weather conditions.
What are your thoughts on this test? Have you experienced reduced range in your EV in cold weather? Share your experiences in the comments below.
For more information or to contact the author, you can reach out to patrick.george@insideevs.com.