4 Important tips on how to maximize your EV battery life
1. Limit Exposure to Extreme Heat While Parked
Extreme heat can be damaging to your EV’s battery, especially when parked and unplugged. If your vehicle’s temperature control system kicks in, it can unnecessarily drain the battery to maintain optimal temperatures. This system is best reserved for when the car is actively driving. To reduce this strain, always aim to park in the shade or keep your EV plugged in, allowing the thermal management system to draw power from the grid instead of the battery. This will help maintain a more stable operating temperature.
2. Avoid Keeping the Battery at 100%
Most electric vehicles come equipped with a battery management system designed to prevent charging or discharging at extreme levels. Maintaining a battery charge between 0% and 100% can improve long-term battery performance. Although fully charging your EV provides maximum range, doing this regularly can reduce battery lifespan. To preserve battery health, aim to keep it at a moderate charge level.
3. Limit Fast Charging
Fast charging is incredibly convenient when you’re in a hurry, but it pushes a significant amount of current into your battery in a short time. This can accelerate battery wear and reduce its lifespan. Over eight years, using standard charging could extend your battery’s life by up to 10% compared to frequent fast charging. It’s worth opting for slower charging when you have the time to do so.
4. Maintain an Optimal Charge Level for Long-Term Storage
Leaving your EV parked for long periods with either a full or empty battery can cause gradual degradation. If you plan to store your vehicle or won’t be using it for a while, it’s wise to use a timed charger. Keep the battery charged at a mid-level, ideally between 25% and 75%, to prevent unnecessary stress. This approach ensures your EV’s battery remains in good condition while in storage.
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