E1 and cold weather

Living in Canada, I use my cameras in the cold quite often. The E-20 has given me good service, but my new E-1 doesn't last long outside. New batteries don't help ... at a certain temp, the camera simply refuses to work. A bit of a disappointment given that it's supposed to be a professional camera. Has anyone else done cold shooting with their E1 ? I'd be interested in hearing if this is common.
lyn