Cold temperatures significantly degrade the performance, efficiency, and lifespan of Li-ion batteries, posing a major challenge for electric vehicles (EVs) in cold climates. To mitigate these effects, effective preconditioning methods are necessary to heat the battery to an optimal operating temperature before use. Proper thermal management not only enhances battery reliability but also ensures consistent performance and longevity. This study investigates and compares two widely used preconditioning techniques for Lithium-ion batteries, external heating using thin film heaters and internal heating, through finite element method (FEM) simulations. By analyzing the effectiveness of both external and internal heating approaches, this research seeks to determine the most efficient method for reducing performance losses in EVs under cold-weather conditions. Additionally, a hybrid approach that combines both internal and external heating is investigated for its potential to minimize energy consumption while achieving rapid and uniform preconditioning.