10 Winter Tips to Maximize Your 2026 Chevrolet Equinox EV Range in Quebec

Quebec winters test every vehicle, and EVs are no exception. If you drive a 2026 Chevrolet Equinox EV in Delson or anywhere else in Quebec, you've probably noticed that displayed range can drop in cold weather. This reduction—typically 20 to 30% under normal winter conditions—isn't a defect, but a physical reality tied to how lithium-ion batteries work and the energy needed to heat the cabin. The good news? You can minimize this loss and maximize every kilometre of your 513 km (FWD) or 494 km (AWD) range with simple, effective strategies.

Here are 10 practical tips, based on real-world data and Canadian best practices, to get the most out of your Equinox EV this winter.

Precondition the Cabin and Battery While Plugged In

Preconditioning is one of the most effective tactics for preserving winter range. When your Equinox EV is plugged in, use the scheduled departure feature or the myChevrolet app to heat the cabin and battery 20 to 30 minutes before leaving. This draws energy from the electrical grid rather than the 85 kWh battery, letting you start your trip with a full, warm battery that's ready to deliver full power and accept regenerative braking energy from the first kilometre.

Canadian EV associations and auto clubs consistently recommend this practice, as it can preserve up to 20 to 25% of usable range in sub-zero temperatures.

Use Heated Seats and Steering Wheel First

Your 2026 Equinox EV comes standard with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel on LT and RS trims. These features use significantly less energy than heating the entire cabin. By lowering the climate system temperature a few degrees and relying on heated seats and steering wheel for comfort, you can recover a substantial portion of lost range.

Real-world testing shows that cabin heating alone can consume 20 to 25% of usable range at low temperatures. Adjusting your habits keeps more energy available for driving.

Activate Eco Climate Mode

The Equinox EV's Eco Climate system automatically adjusts airflow based on the number of passengers and their positions, reducing wasted energy spent heating empty zones. This smart technology optimizes heating and air conditioning for maximum comfort with minimal consumption.

Turn on this mode as soon as possible in winter to maintain a comfortable temperature without overworking the battery.

Drive Smoothly and Keep Speeds Moderate

Hard accelerations, high speeds, and frequent braking increase consumption, just like with a gas vehicle, but the impact on an EV's limited winter range is more noticeable. Canadian road tests show that range loss is significantly higher at 110 to 120 km/h than at moderate speeds, especially when the heater is running at full blast.

By driving more smoothly—gradual accelerations, anticipating stops, maintaining a steady speed—you maximize the efficiency of your 220 hp (FWD) or 300 hp (AWD) electric powertrain. Lift off the accelerator early before red lights or toll booths to take advantage of regenerative braking, which converts kinetic energy into electricity and recharges the battery.

Monitor and Maintain Tire Pressure

Cold air lowers tire pressure, which increases rolling resistance and energy consumption. Canadian winter driving guides recommend checking and adjusting pressure at least once a month during winter.

Your Equinox EV is equipped with 19-inch (LT) or 21-inch (RS) all-season tires. Make sure they're inflated to the recommended pressure, which you can easily monitor through the myChevrolet app. Pressure that's 50 kPa (7 psi) below the recommended value can reduce efficiency by several percentage points.

Charge as Often as Possible

In winter, adopt the "always plugged in" rule. Charge your Equinox EV whenever you can, especially after driving while the battery is still warm. A warm battery accepts charge more efficiently and can slightly extend usable range.

Quebec utilities and EV groups recommend using delayed charging to take advantage of reduced overnight electricity rates and finishing the charge just before departure, so the battery is warm and full. With 150 kW DC fast charging capability, your Equinox EV can recharge quickly at a public station.

Choose Low Rolling Resistance Winter Tires

Proper winter tires improve traction and safety, but not all winter tires are equal when it comes to energy efficiency. Efficiency-focused winter tires with lower rolling resistance can reduce the range penalty compared to aggressive snow tires.

Ask your team at Vision Chevrolet Buick GMC in Delson for tire recommendations suited to Quebec conditions that optimize both safety and range.

Clear Snow From Your Vehicle Before Driving

Removing snow and ice from your Equinox EV before driving helps minimize airflow disruption around the vehicle and maintain range efficiency. It's also essential for the HD Surround Vision camera, Chevrolet Safety Assist system, and other driver assistance technology sensors to work properly.

Keep sensors and cameras clean so your advanced safety system stays fully operational.

Remove Unnecessary Weight

Every extra kilogram in your vehicle reduces energy efficiency. Testing shows that carrying 100 kg of unnecessary items can reduce range by about 3%. Remove seasonal gear, tools, or luggage you don't use regularly.

With 1,620 L of cargo space (rear seats folded) or 748 L (behind the second row), the Equinox EV offers plenty of room, but keep it clear to maximize efficiency.

Plan Your Routes and Use Built-In Navigation

Your Equinox EV's 17.7-inch infotainment system with Google Built-in includes navigation that can optimize your routes based on available range and charging stations. In winter, plan more frequent, shorter charging stops, especially on long trips.

Canadian EV winter travel advice recommends arriving at fast chargers with 10 to 20% charge remaining, preconditioning the battery if possible (your Equinox EV does this automatically when navigating to a charger), and avoiding fast charging a completely cold battery. Use apps like ChargeHub or the built-in navigation to locate heated or sheltered chargers along your route.

Realistic Range Expectations for Quebec Winters

These figures are estimates based on real-world testing under Canadian conditions. Your actual range will depend on your driving style, heater use, tire pressure, and other factors.

Enjoy Your Equinox EV This Winter

Quebec winters don't have to be an obstacle to electric driving. With these 10 practical tips, you can minimize range loss, maximize your comfort, and fully enjoy your 2026 Chevrolet Equinox EV throughout the cold season. From smart charging to smooth driving to using built-in technologies, every small habit helps preserve your range and makes your trips more enjoyable.

Have questions about optimizing your Equinox EV for winter? Visit our team at Vision Chevrolet Buick GMC in Delson for personalized advice, winter accessories, and expert service to help you get the most from your EV, no matter the weather.