When temperatures drop, electric vehicle owners may find that their cars having a decreased driving range, according to new research from insurance giant AAA.

The research found that when temperatures drop to 20° F and the HVAC system is used to heat the inside of the vehicle, the average driving range is decreased by 41% -- meaning that for every 100 miles of urban or highway driving, it would be reduced to 59 miles at these temperatures.

“The appeal of electric vehicles continues to grow since a greater variety of designs and options with increased range have come onto the market,” said Greg Brannon, AAA’s director of automotive engineering and industry relations. “As long as drivers understand that there are limitations when operating electric vehicles in more extreme climates, they are less likely to be caught off guard by an unexpected drop in driving range.”

AAA also found that when the weather heats up to 95° F and the air conditioner is used inside the vehicle, driving range of electric vehicles decreases by 17%. Additionally, AAA said an electric vehicle with a compromised driving range due to extreme hot or cold temperatures will require more frequent charging, increasing the overall cost of the vehicle.

AAA tested five electric vehicles with a minimum EPA estimated driving range of 100 miles. The insurance company used what it calls a treadmill for cars in a closed cell where temperatures could be controlled to determine the effects on driving range. These results were compared to driving ranges with an outside temperature of 75° F.

“The research clearly shows that electric vehicles thrive in more moderate climates, except the reality is most Americans live in an area where temperature fluctuates,” said Megan McKernan, manager of the Automotive Research Center. “Automakers are continually making advances to improve range, but with this information, drivers will be more aware of the impacts varying weather conditions can have on their electric vehicles.”

AAA recommends owners of electric vehicles be aware of weather conditions before heading out and plan ahead for frequent stops at charging stations if going longer distances. Also, owners should make time to pre-heat or cool down the vehicle while it is still connected to a charger to reduce the demand on the vehicle’s battery. AAA recommends parking the car in locations that either allow the car to remain warm or cold, such as a parking garage.

Previously, AAA found that 20% of drivers said they would go green when considering their next vehicle purchase. With lower-than-average ownership costs, increased driving ranges and more safety features, AAA said electric vehicle adoption could witness a significant uptick.