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Are hybrid cars less efficient in winter/snow?

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That means you end up using more gas to do less work. The same factors ... That keeps the gasoline relatively cold and the engine running below maximum fuel efficiency. ... A lot of the time, cold weather means snow and ice -- and wet winter weather can have a negative impact on all cars' fuel economy, not just hybrids'. read more

Finer traction control and torque distribution make hybrid cars more efficient than conventional cars with manual gear shift by a large margin. This argument may fail however when the snow plays a part in efficiency of batteries (if the temperature of the battery pack is not adequately monitored/shielded) etc. Battery type is also a factor. read more

But really, how a hybrid performs in snow and ice truly depends on the type of hybrid you own. Hybrid cars now come in all shapes and sizes -- there are even hybrid trucks and SUVs equipped with all-wheel-drive for extra grip in the snow. Even small hybrid sedans have the potential to do well on snow and ice. read more

Typically a series hybrid should be more efficient as the engine can be run at the highest efficiency point for the longest amount of time as the battery will be directly powering the car and would thus act as a buffer. read more

Winter grades of gasoline can have slightly less energy per gallon than summer blends. Battery performance decreases in cold weather, making it harder for your alternator to keep your battery charged. This also affects the performance of the regenerative braking system on hybrids. In severe winter weather, your mpg can drop even further. read more

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