Since the UK’s temperatures have dropped I’ve been getting to grips with how someone adopting an electric car lifestyle has to adapt to adverse weather conditions.

But adapt only slightly. Many current generation electric cars, such as our Cupra Born, offer such a practical range now that only the long-range commuter might start to ponder whether to have the heating on or not.

Whereas in the spring this 58kWh battery Born was delivering 220-240 stress-free miles, it now shows 200 miles at 100% charge because the lower temperatures in winter slow down the battery’s chemical reactions and processes, reducing its performance.

Couple that with my increased use of the heated steering wheel, driver seat and door mirrors – all of which are standard in this trim level and extremely welcome on a frosty morning. 

It essentially means that, on average, I plug this Cupra in to my PodPoint home charger every five days now, instead of once a week.

The technology on board the Cupra Born is designed to keep the car efficient, while keeping owners comfortable.

Rather than waste energy heating the entire cabin, it can direct the warmth generated by its electric auxiliary air heater directly towards the driver when they’re alone in the car, while the aforementioned heated seat and steering wheel play their part.

In my view it is crucial that any potential buyer allowed an overnight test drive of the Cupra Born gets a full explanation of these systems and features before they head off the forecourt.

Let them experience and appreciate the cleverness of this car.

Pros – Toasty hands within seconds

Cons – Dirty and wet charging cables