This video outlines the best practices for taking care of electric vehicle (EV) batteries. It covers routine maintenance, optimal charging habits, and storage tips to ensure maximum battery longevity and performance. The video also discusses common mistakes to avoid and how to handle battery-related issues.
While your smartphone may be outdated in a few years, an EV is built to last closer to 15 years, and the battery pack should last even longer. EV batteries are generally maintenance-free, but there are some do's and don'ts that will maximize their lifespan. There are 3 ways to charge your EV. Level 1 charging uses a standard 110-volt outlet. Depending on the size of the battery, a Level 1 charger may take days to fully charge an EV. Level 2 charging uses a 240-volt outlet and can generally charge an EV in a matter of hours. Level 3 charging is also called DC fast charging. You can get an 80% charge in about a half hour, but automakers suggest it not be used on a daily basis. Try not to charge your EV battery over 80% on a regular basis. It puts stress on the battery the closer you are to a full charge. Likewise, letting the battery drain all the way to 0 can stress the battery as well. Extended exposure to extreme temperatures will reduce how many miles you will get on a charge. Try to keep your car in the garage when possible to avoid freezing or scalding temperatures. It's also a good idea to accelerate moderately when driving. Having a lead foot can add stress to the components, reduce range, and impact battery life. Over the life of your car, the battery may degrade to a small degree, but not enough to warrant replacement if you take good care of it. The bottom line is to limit the use of DC fast chargers, keep your vehicle at a moderate temperature, and accelerate gradually. Thanks for watching. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel to get recommendations for other useful content on green cars and how they can work best for you.