Do keeping batteries in the freezer make them last longer while storing them? If so, why is cold winter nights so hard on car batteries?

Do keeping batteries in the freezer make them last longer while storing them?
Low temperatures can retard the chemical reactions of some battery types and reduce the self-discharge rate. However, refrigeration instead of freezing would be more appropriate as some types contain water, alkaline for example, and could freeze and rupture if placed in the freezer. Also, the battery should be allowed to warm naturally to operating temperature before use.


If so, why is cold winter nights so hard on car batteries?
Same reason. The low temperature retards the chemical reaction which produces the electrical power required to start the car.

More information:

Battery Univerisity: Storing and priming of batteries (http://www.batteryuniversity.com/partone-19.htm)
Powerstream: Battery Storage FAQ (http://www.powerstream.com/Storage.htm)
Amazon: Handbook of Batteries (http://www.amazon.com/Handbook-Batteries-David-Linden/dp/0071359788)