How to extend the battery life of an electric car?

  • How to extend the battery life of an electric car?

    Publication date 21.09.2024

    How to Extend the Lifespan of an Electric Vehicle Battery?

    The battery of an electric vehicle (EV) is one of the most important and expensive components of the car. It's no surprise that many drivers wonder how to maintain its efficiency and maximize its lifespan.

    Experts agree that by following a few simple yet effective rules, this is entirely possible. How should you care for your EV battery, and what mistakes should you avoid? Here's what you need to know!
    How long does a battery last?
    Typically, EV manufacturers provide warranties for batteries lasting 8 to 10 years or up to 160,000 kilometers.

    However, these are just preliminary estimates. In many cases, batteries last longer than the warranty period, depending on how carefully they are used. Over time, battery efficiency decreases, but this happens gradually. After 10 years, you can expect the battery to retain about 70-80% of its original capacity.

    This means that even if the battery loses some capacity after the guaranteed 160,000 kilometers, it can still provide sufficient performance for your journeys.

    EV batteries are designed to withstand a certain number of charging cycles. Most modern batteries handle between 1,500 and 2,000 charging cycles. One charging cycle typically allows you to drive about 300 kilometers, amounting to a total distance of approximately 450,000 kilometers over the battery's lifespan.
    For example, the "Citroën ë-C4" has a 50 kWh battery that can be charged at a fast charging station without significant damage, enabling more than 300 kilometers of range per charge.

    4 Battery Maintenance Tips

    1. Avoid full charges and discharges

    While it might seem logical to use the full battery capacity, charging the EV battery to 100% and discharging it to 0% is not the best approach if you want to extend its lifespan.

    Experts note that such cycles place a higher strain on the battery and may negatively affect its longevity.
    It is recommended to keep the battery charge between 20% and 80%. When the charge stays within this range, the stress on the electrodes is reduced, minimizing wear and potentially extending the battery's lifespan.

    2. Prefer slow charging whenever possible

    Battery degradation is directly linked to the number of charging cycles. Every time the battery is charged and discharged, it wears down slightly. However, not all charging methods have the same impact.

    Fast charging is a highly convenient feature for EVs. However, frequent use of fast charging can negatively affect the battery. Regular fast charging accelerates battery aging because it generates more heat.

    Heat is one of the primary factors reducing battery efficiency, so it's recommended to use slow charging more often. Slow charging allows the battery to reach its optimal charge level gradually, avoiding excessive heat buildup. This reduces the risk of rapid wear and prolongs the battery's lifespan.

    3. Avoid extreme temperatures

    Both cold and heat can significantly impact an EV battery. Hot weather, especially during summer, can dangerously increase battery temperature. Extreme cold is also harmful, as it reduces battery capacity and may cause long-term damage.

    Most modern EVs have integrated thermal management systems to help maintain an optimal battery temperature. However, additional precautions are beneficial: park your car in a cool spot during summer and in a heated area during winter. You can also use battery preheating or cooling functions if your EV is equipped with them.

    4. Drive responsibly

    Sudden accelerations and hard braking place significant strain on the battery, reducing its performance over time and accelerating wear.
    The best practice is to maintain a steady and moderate driving style – keep a consistent speed, avoid sudden accelerations, and brake gently.

    Regenerative braking, a feature in most modern EVs, also helps extend battery life by returning energy to the battery during braking.

      

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