Arctic Surprise: Tests Find EVs Out-Perform Diesel In Extreme Cold

20 Jan 2026 | Abstracted from Electrek

EVs tested in Alaska's remote Arctic communities - including light‑duty pickups, utility trucks, and other fleet work vehicles - outperformed diesel in extreme cold. An NREL study found they operated reliably at –40°F, chargers stayed functional, and total costs were lower than diesel. Fleet managers in Kotzebue, Galena, and Bethel reported EVs "thrive" in harsh conditions, delivering better performance and savings even in the coldest regions.

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