3 of the Cheapest Electric Cars to Run in Winter
Winter can reduce EV range, increase energy use and add extra charging time — but not all electric cars are affected equally. Some models remain impressively efficient in cold conditions, delivering great mileage and low running costs even when temperatures drop.
Here are the cheapest electric cars to run in winter, based on efficiency, heating performance, battery conditioning and real-world cold-weather range.
Looking for an EV cable? Shop our range of electric vehicle charging cables compatible with all UK EV brands.
1. MG4 EV — Highly Efficient Year-Round
The MG4 continues to perform exceptionally well in winter thanks to its efficient motor, good thermal management and strong real-world range.
Why It’s Great in Winter:
-
Heat pump available on some trims.
-
Strong battery conditioning.
-
Good motorway efficiency.
-
Long range helps offset winter loss.
Typical Winter Range: 160–240 miles.
Best For: Daily commuters and family drivers.
2. Citroën ë-C3 — Excellent Urban Efficiency
The ë-C3 remains one of the most efficient winter EVs, thanks to it's lightweight design and efficient climate control systems that prevent excessive battery drain.
Winter Benefits:
-
Comfortable suspension for icy city roads.
-
Efficient heating compared with rivals.
-
Lightweight = less energy loss.
Typical Winter Range: 140–170 miles.
Best For: City drivers and short-distance commuters.
3. Dacia Spring — The Cheapest Winter Runner
Even in cold conditions, the Dacia Spring remains one of the cheapest EVs to run, especially for short journeys where efficiency matters most.
Winter Strengths:
-
Extremely low energy consumption.
-
Compact and efficient heating demand.
-
Ideal for short winter drives.
Typical Winter Range: 90–120 miles.
Best For: Local trips and low-mileage drivers.
Winter Charging Tips to Save Money
Cold weather affects battery chemistry, but simple habits can help reduce running costs:
-
Precondition while plugged in — warm the battery using grid power, not the car’s battery.
-
Use eco heating modes — heated seats use less energy than cabin heating.
-
Keep your EV plugged in overnight — stabilises battery temperature.
-
Choose a high-quality Type 2 cable — ensures reliable, safe charging even in rain or frost.
Whether you’re driving the MG4, ë-C3 or Dacia Spring, all three remain some of the cheapest EVs to run in winter. Their efficient design, low energy use and accessible charging performance make them ideal year-round choices for budget-focused drivers.
For the best winter charging experience, pair your EV with a durable Type 2 EV charging cable from EVwired — weatherproof, reliable and backed by a 5-year warranty.
Enjoyed this article? You might also enjoy: Autumn Maintenance for Your EV: Cables, Tyres, and Charging Checks.
