04.08.2025
Electric Cars to Issyk-Kul: Winter Test from Bishkek
Electric Cars from Bishkek to the Center of the Earth: Winter Drive to Issyk-Kul
Can electric cars handle the cold Kyrgyz winter? We tested 6 EVs on a real route from Bishkek to Lake Issyk-Kul, one of the most unique and geographically central places in Eurasia.
🌍 Why Issyk-Kul is Called the “Center of the Earth”
Lake Issyk-Kul sits in the heart of Kyrgyzstan — and Kyrgyzstan itself is geographically located near the center of the Eurasian continent. The lake is:
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One of the largest saline mountain lakes in the world (6,236 km²)
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Up to 668 meters deep
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Endorheic (no outflowing rivers — only inflow)
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Never freezes, even in winter
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Surrounded by the majestic Tian Shan Mountains
This central position and unique nature make it symbolically known as the "center of the Earth" by many locals.
🔋 The Test: 6 Electric Vehicles on the Road
We selected 6 electric vehicles — most with over 100,000 km mileage — and hit the road to test them in real conditions: cold, speed, and road elevation.
Test participants:
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BYD Tang 2019 – 505 km range
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BYD e2 2019 – 400 km
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Weltmeister EX5 2019 – 400 km
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Weltmeister EX5 2021 – 500 km
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Weltmeister W6 2022 – 520 km
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Changan EM80 2025 – 260 km (brand new)
🚗 Road Conditions:
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Temperature: –7 to –5°C
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Speed: 100–130 km/h
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Charging: One stop in Kemin (after 40–50% used)
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Charging cost: 400–500 KGS per car
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Duration: 4–5 hours
All vehicles successfully completed the journey without breakdowns — even those with significant battery wear.
⚠ One Twist in the Story
Two team members had to leave in Kemin due to personal reasons, but the rest of the cars continued and arrived safely at Issyk-Kul.
✅ Conclusion
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EVs can confidently handle the Bishkek – Issyk-Kul route in winter
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One fast charge is enough for the trip
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Older EVs with high mileage still perform well
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The new Changan EM80 also passed the test with flying colors
📹 Watch the full video of the journey here: