How to care for an electric car battery

Maximizing the life of your electric vehicle’s battery requires following specific practices and maintaining a careful approach. These measures not only preserve the battery, but also improve range and reduce long-term costs. Below, we explain the detailed recommendations for taking care of your electric car.

Battery life depends on battery technology

Lithium-ion batteries

They are the most common in modern electric cars due to their high energy density and efficiency. These batteries typically last between 8 and 15 years, or approximately 150,000 to 300,000 kilometers, depending on the model and manufacturer. Their capacity gradually decreases over time, but good maintenance can slow this loss.

Lithium iron phosphate batteries (LiFePO4)

These batteries are more resistant to charge and discharge cycles than traditional lithium-ion batteries, so they have a longer service life. It is estimated that they can last more than 2,000 full charge cycles, which is equivalent to 10-20 years under normal use. Although they tend to be less energy dense, they are more durable and thermally stable.

Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries

Although they are less common in modern electric cars, some hybrid vehicles still use them. They have a somewhat shorter life than lithium-ion batteries, about 5 to 10 years, and are more sensitive to temperature extremes.

Solid state batteries (under development)

Although they are still in the development phase for the mass market, they promise longer life and better performance compared to current batteries. They are expected to exceed 300,000 kilometers and offer much slower degradation, making them a promising option for the future.

How to care for electric car battery

Follow manufacturer’s recommendations on electric car battery charging

Following the manufacturer’s recommendations is essential to take care of the battery. Avoid charging it to 100% constantly, as this puts stress on the lithium-ion cells. Similarly, never let the charge drop below 20%, as a complete discharge can be harmful. Keeping the battery in a charge range between 20 % and 80 % is recommended. If you are planning a long trip, you can do a full charge occasionally, but make sure it is not a regular practice.

Reduces vehicle starting efforts

Although electric vehicles do not have a clutch, you should avoid as much as possible energy injections when starting the car, such as activating multiple electrical devices at the same time (air conditioning, high beams, etc.). This small gesture can help reduce stress on the electrical system and battery.

Avoid short distances as much as possible.

Very short trips, especially in extreme weather conditions, can be detrimental to the battery, as they do not allow the system to reach its optimum operating temperature. Whenever possible, combine several short trips into one longer trip to improve the efficiency of the battery and electrical system.

Frequent battery charging

Instead of waiting until the battery is almost empty to charge it, it performs more frequent charges at intermediate ranges. This reduces the number of complete charge and discharge cycles, which prolongs battery life. If you have access to a charging station at home or at work, consider scheduling shorter, more frequent charging sessions.

Avoid extreme temperatures

Lithium-ion batteries are sensitive to extreme cold and excessive heat. Whenever possible, store your vehicle in a covered location, such as a garage, to protect it from these conditions. In cold climates, use the vehicle’s preconditioning features to warm the battery before driving. In hot climates, try to park in the shade or in a cool place to avoid overheating.

Drive efficiently

The way you drive has a significant impact on the battery. Avoiding hard acceleration and braking not only improves range, but also reduces wear and tear on vehicle components. In addition, driving at moderate speeds helps to optimize energy consumption, especially on long journeys. Plan your routes to avoid unnecessary climbs, heavy traffic or areas where efficiency may be affected.

Never leave the battery charged or discharged for a long time.

If you are not going to use your electric car for an extended period of time, it is essential that you take measures to protect the battery. Make sure the charge is between 40% and 60% before storing it, as leaving it fully charged or discharged for a long time can damage the battery. Also, avoid storing it in places with extreme temperatures, such as outdoors in the middle of summer or winter.

Be careful what you connect

Electronic devices connected to the car, such as phone chargers, extra lights or portable refrigerators, can consume energy even when the vehicle is turned off. Unplug them whenever you don’t need them to avoid unnecessary discharges. Also, check regularly for devices that may be running in the background.

Regular maintenance is advisable to prevent

Preventive maintenance is key to avoid major problems. Perform periodic check-ups in specialized workshops and follow the maintenance plan recommended by the manufacturer. These checks include everything from inspection of the charging system to software updates that can optimize battery performance.

Find out about the reliability of the recharging points beforehand.

Using certified charging stations is essential to ensure that the charging process is safe and efficient. Official charging points usually meet specific standards that protect both the battery and the car’s electrical system. To find stations near you, you can use this map of charging points for electric vehicles.

Taking care of your electric vehicle’s battery is not only key to extending its useful life, but also to maximizing range and maintaining optimal performance on a daily basis. By following these recommended practices, you can reduce natural battery wear, save on maintenance costs and contribute to the environment by using your electric car more efficiently.

Always remember to consult the manufacturer’s manual for specific and customized recommendations for your car model. In addition, use reliable and certified charging points to ensure safe and proper charging.

Frequently Asked Questions