Electric cars are being hailed as the best option for driving in frigid temperatures, according to advocates in Saskatchewan. With the federal government planning to phase out sales of new gas-powered vehicles in the next decade, the focus on electric cars has intensified.

Two electric car enthusiasts, Tyler Krause and Matthew Pointer, shared their positive experiences of driving electric vehicles in winter during an interview on CBC’s Blue Sky. Krause, who is associated with the Saskatchewan Electric Vehicle Association and founded the Tesla Owners Club of Saskatchewan, emphasized the faster heating and increased reliability of electric cars compared to gas-powered vehicles. He also highlighted the downside of reduced driving range in extremely cold weather, despite the advancements in charging infrastructure in the province.

Matthew Pointer, who also drives a Tesla Model 3, echoed Krause’s sentiments, emphasizing the convenience of preheating the car using a mobile app and the superior driving experience offered by electric vehicles in winter.

While both advocates acknowledged that battery-electric vehicles might not be suitable for all drivers in the province, particularly those who need to travel long distances regularly or reside in areas with limited charging infrastructure, they suggested that plug-in hybrid vehicles could be a viable alternative in line with the federal government’s mandates.

The conversation around electric vehicles has gained momentum with the government’s plan to phase out gas-powered vehicles by 2035. This shift towards electric vehicles is expected to prompt significant changes in the automotive industry and consumer preferences in the coming years.