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EV charging best practices
Electric vehicles (EVs) rely on Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries, which naturally degrade over time, leading to decreased battery capacity and reduced driving range. On average, an EV battery lasts over 10 years, with an annual range loss of around one to two percent. However, by modifying your charging habits and driving behaviour, you can extend the lifespan and efficiency of your EV and its battery.
1. Check your speed
Just like petrol or diesel vehicles, the range of your EV is influenced by your driving style. Driving at higher speeds leads to increased energy consumption, causing your battery to deplete faster. Avoiding sudden acceleration or braking and maintaining a steady speed can help improve efficiency, extending your EV's range.
2. Use eco mode
Many modern electric vehicles now come equipped with an eco-mode designed to prioritise energy conservation. This mode reduces power usage in features that consume the most energy, such as the accelerator and air conditioning. The power that would have been used for these features is used to extend your EV’s range. Likewise, if your EV comes with a sports mode, its recommended to use this sparingly.
3. The 80/20 rule
The frequency of charge cycles affects the battery capacity of an EV. To prolong battery life, it is recommended to charge your EV up to 80% and avoid letting the battery drop below 20%. This should be perfectly feasible for daily usage, but if you’re going on a long journey, its important to check your battery level matches the required distance. Although charging to 100% occasionally won’t harm your battery, it’s best practice to avoid doing this regularly.
4. Avoid regular rapid charging
While the increasing availability of rapid chargers has made EV charging more convenient, frequent use of these chargers can negatively impact your battery's lifespan. Rapid charging involves high electricity currents that can accelerate battery degradation, ultimately reducing your vehicle’s range. It’s best to reserve rapid charging for necessary situations, such as long journeys or when time constraints require a quick recharge.
5. Avoid extreme temperatures
Using your EV’s heating and air conditioning can quickly drain the battery. To conserve power, utilise your car’s pre-conditioning function, which allows you to adjust the temperature while the car is charging, rather than using the battery’s power. In cold weather, heated seats are a more efficient way to stay warm than the primary heating system. In hot weather, try opening windows or using the car's fan without the compressor when possible.
6. Keep tyres inflated
Under-inflated tyres increase the resistance between your vehicle and the road, causing the battery to work harder to maintain power. This not only decreases your range but also leads to uneven tyre wear, which can be costly over time. For optimal efficiency, ensure you consistently check and maintain the recommended tyre pressure.
Conclusion
As EV technology continues to advance, the efficiency of batteries and chargers is improving, allowing future electric vehicles to travel greater distances with less effort. For now, making a few adjustments to your driving and charging habits can significantly enhance your EV's range. By implementing these suggestions, you can prolong the lifespan and efficiency of your EV and its battery, leading to cost savings and a reduced carbon footprint.
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