8 Helpful Tips on How to Extend Your EV's Battery Life
The gradual adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in various parts of the world has raised curiosity among owners about the best practices for ensuring the longevity and efficiency of their cars in the long run. One aspect of concern and importance is the battery life, which lies at the heart of the EV's operation and value. A well-maintained battery in an EV guarantees optimal vehicle performance, minimises the likelihood of costly repairs or replacements and maximises the vehicle's resale value.
If you're wondering about how you can better prolong your EV's battery life, here are some tips that you may find useful:
Work with a Reliable Electrical Contractor
One of the most practical and convenient things about owning an EV is that you can charge it at home, unlike traditional cars which depend on public refuelling stations. However, installing a home charging point is not a DIY project; it demands the expertise of a reliable electrical contractor. Find a local EV charger installer near you who can not only set up your home charging point safely but also match it perfectly to your vehicle’s requirements and your charging habits.
This bespoke approach to installation, in turn, lays the foundation for charging practices that are kind to your battery. Professionals that specialise in EV charging point installation in the UK can guide you towards slow charging options that extend battery life.
Practise Mindful Charging
One of the easiest and most effective strategies for extending the lifespan of your EV's battery is to start mindful charging practices. EV manufacturers advise against letting your car battery drain all the way down to 0% since this can reduce the battery's lifespan.
The best practice is to keep your battery's charge level between 20% to 80% rather than charging it to full capacity or allowing it to deplete entirely. You can also use slower charging methods, as fast charging frequently can degrade the battery faster. Make sure that your EV charger is working as it should, since faulty chargers can damage your EV's battery. Hence, scheduling regular EV charging point maintenance services is also crucial.
Conduct Routine Maintenance Inspections
All cars, or any machinery essentially, require regular, scheduled maintenance to remain in tip-top shape, and any underlying or burgeoning issues can be promptly addressed before they worsen. It is suggested that you adhere to your manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule, which may include periodic inspections and firmware updates that enhance the efficiency of the battery management system (BMS). The BMS is critical in monitoring the battery's condition and regulating charging and discharging rates for operational parameters to remain within safe limits.
Regulate Charging Speed
While fast charging presents a convenient solution for EV owners needing a quick boost, frequent use of fast-charging stations can negatively affect battery life. Fast charging can increase the temperature and stress on the battery, which accelerates wear and tear. Thus, it's better for you and your car to opt for standard or moderate charging methods for everyday use to preserve the battery. Fast charging should be reserved for situations that require it, such as during long trips where time constraints are a factor.
Minimise High Battery Use Conditions
High-speed driving, rapid acceleration, and heavy reliance on in-car heating and cooling systems can deplete your EV's battery more quickly and even make it more prone to wear and damage. Next time, try to moderate your speed, utilise regenerative braking features, and pre-condition your vehicle while it's plugged in to reduce the strain on the battery. Avoiding unnecessary electrical load by minimising the use of onboard electronics can also further conserve your car's battery life.
Update Your Battery Management Systems (BMS)
The Battery Management System continuously monitors and adjusts the temperature, voltage, and current of your EV's battery. As an EV owner, you should update your BMS software regularly since manufacturers often release updates that improve the system's efficiency and the battery's overall performance. These updates can enhance the battery's resilience against degradation and optimise its charging and discharging cycles, contributing significantly to its longevity. You should ensure your vehicle's BMS always operates with the latest software to benefit from these advancements.
Mind Your Speed
An electric vehicle’s instant torque and swift acceleration can make the experience of driving one exhilarating, but if you indulge this thrill too frequently, you run the risk of harming the longevity of your EV’s battery. Driving at high speeds increases energy consumption and forces the battery to work harder and deplete faster. This affects your range and also wears down the battery over time.
By adopting a more moderate pace on the road, you can reduce the strain on your battery, conserve energy and extend the distance your EV can travel on a single charge. Such mindful driving practices can both benefit your battery's health and enhance the overall driving experience, as they offer a smoother and more relaxed journey.
Prioritise Your EV's Battery Health
The performance of your EV relies on its battery, and with proper care, you can ensure its longevity for years to come. With these helpful strategies, from simple considerations like practising better charging habits to more proactive actions such as driving more efficiently, you can significantly extend your EV's battery life. An EV is an investment of the future, and safeguarding its battery life is one way to protect this investment and keep your vehicle running smoothly. By prioritising your EV's battery and managing it wisely, it can remain a valuable asset for a long time.