In the past few years, the electric vehicle (EV) has gained widespread adoption, offering a cost-effective and efficient alternative to more traditional petrol-based vehicles. However, at the core of each EV is its battery, which inevitably degrades and needs to be replaced over time.
EV owners should be concerned about their vehicle’s battery because it is the most critical and most expensive component. According to US News, most EV manufacturers provide a generous 8-year or 100,000-mile (160,934 km) warranty on the battery. It’s also estimated that an EV battery can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years, depending on various factors.
Challenges such as extreme weather, improper charging practices, and aggressive driving can accelerate battery degradation. Fortunately, there are several ways to extend your EV battery’s lifespan. Here are some effective strategies to help you maximise your EV’s battery life and ensure it runs smoothly for years to come.
1. Protect Your EV from the Elements
Extreme weather conditions can take a toll on your EV battery, with high temperatures accelerating battery degradation and extremely cold weather reducing its efficiency. To protect your EV from these elements, park it in a proper garage or a shaded area during hot weather, and consider using a thermal management system. These systems help regulate the battery’s temperature, which keeps it within the optimal range and prevents unnecessary wear and tear. Additionally, during cold weather, pre-warm your vehicle while it’s still plugged in to avoid straining the battery when you start driving.
2. Keep Your Batteries at Its Optimal Charge
Managing your EV’s charge levels is one of the most crucial aspects of maintaining your battery’s health. Therefore, make it a habit to regularly charge your battery to 80% and prevent it from dropping to 0%, which can put significant stress on it.
Aim to keep your battery level between 20% and 80% for daily use. This practice helps in reducing the wear on the battery cells and prolongs their lifespan. To make it easy for you to keep your battery at its optimal charge, book an EV charging point installation from a reliable service provider. With experts installing a compatible unit in your garage, you’ll always have easy access to a charger that works perfectly with your vehicle.
3. Practice Good Driving Habits
Your driving style has a direct impact on your EV battery’s longevity. Rapid acceleration and hard braking generate excess heat, which can strain the battery. Instead, try to drive smoothly and anticipate stops to avoid sudden braking.
In addition, regenerative braking can be used to recover energy and reduce the need for heavy braking. This system recycles kinetic energy that would otherwise be lost during braking, converting it to electrical energy that can be used to recharge the battery.
4. Update Your EV’s Software Regularly
Manufacturers often release software updates that optimise battery management and improve efficiency. These updates can include enhancements to the vehicle’s thermal management system, charging algorithms, and energy consumption patterns.
Keeping your EV’s software up-to-date ensures that you are benefiting from the latest advancements and improvements. Moreover, regular updates can help your battery perform better and last longer, so make it a habit to check for and install updates as they become available.
5. Invest in High-Quality EVs
The quality of the electric vehicle you purchase can significantly impact the lifespan of its battery. While new EV manufacturers often offer more cost-effective vehicles, high-quality EVs from reputable manufacturers come with better battery management systems, robust warranties, and superior customer support.
These vehicles may have a higher upfront cost, but they offer long-term savings by reducing the likelihood of premature battery replacement and other maintenance issues. Ultimately, investing in a high-quality EV means investing in a reliable, durable battery that can withstand the test of time.
6. Store Your EV Correctly
If you plan to store your EV for an extended period, it’s important to do so at the optimal charge level. Remember that your battery level should be maintained between 20% to 80% when in use. Therefore, storing your vehicle with a full charge or a completely drained battery can harm its health. To avoid battery degradation, try to maintain a charge level of around 50% for long-term storage.
Additionally, store your EV in a cool, dry place to avoid exposure to extreme temperatures. After all, proper storage conditions can significantly extend the life of your battery. This ensures that it remains in good condition when you’re ready to use your vehicle again.
Taking care of your EV battery is essential for maximising its lifespan and ensuring your vehicle runs efficiently for years to come. To enjoy the benefits of your electric vehicle for longer, make sure you follow these practical tips for preserving your battery.
What’s more, adopting these practices not only helps in prolonging the battery life but also enhances your overall driving experience. So implement these tips into your EV driving to get the most out of your clean and efficient vehicle.
