The pace at which India is switching to greener transportation, electric vehicles are in growing demand for commuters, working professionals, and those concernist drivers. Electric vehicles are gaining more popularity as they have lower running costs, minimal impact on the environment, tax benefits, and independence from petrol and diesel. Yet, while an EV simplifies your daily commute, it also demands care and attention, particularly regarding the lithium-ion battery, which is the very core of your vehicle.Proper maintenance of the EV battery is important; not only will it protect your investment, but it will also ensure vehicle performance and longevity.
Why EV battery maintenance is important
In fact, your lithium-ion batteries are not only the most expensive component but also one of the most crucial parts of your electric car. These batteries account for 60-70% of your car’s total costs. Also, when it comes to your conventional car, your car’s engine plays a crucial part in your car’s maintenance costs. However, for your electric car, your lithium-ion batteries need to be taken care of.Battery longevity: The lithium-ion batteries used in electric cars have a lifespan of about 10 years. However, just like other batteries, they also undergo degradation due to chemical reactions. An average electric car loses a range of 2% to 3% each year.The battery pack that has deteriorated may cause reduced performance and range, and ultimately, the replacement of your EV; this is an expensive process. This is an activity that is guaranteed through the maintenance of your EV.
What affects EV battery health
Batteries naturally degrade with time, although some practices and factors speed up this process. It is vital to understand these aspects for proper maintenance:
- Complete charge and discharge cycles
It can be detrimental to the EV to charge it to 100% or to let it run down to 0%. Full charging puts extra strain on the battery cells’ chemistry because it decreases the overall capacity of the battery over time. It should be advisable to maintain the car’s charge between 20% and 80% on a regular daily basis and save the 100% charge for long journeys.Heavy loads, or Towing Operating your EV with large shipments or trailers attached can increase energy consumption, resulting in more heating and early degradation of the battery pack. Overloading the car frequently may also decrease the range and life of the battery.Lithium-ion batteries work efficiently within a certain temperature range. High temperatures or extreme cold stress the battery to use more energy to maintain itself at an optimal operating temperature.
- High temperatures speed up chemical reactions inside the battery; therefore, degradation is faster.
- Low temperatures, however, reduce temporary efficiency and could affect the range, though damage is often reversible.
- Minimise this by avoiding very long periods in direct sunlight or snow, and always precondition your battery before driving in very hot or cold temperatures.
Batteries tend to degrade over time. In the case of EV batteries, the rate at which degradation takes place is nonlinear. It involves a certain initial level of degradation followed by a gradual loss of capacity. An EV battery, given proper care, would last longer than a gasoline or diesel-powered vehicle.
Best ways to extend EV battery life
Taking care of an EV’s battery requires practices related to charging, temperature, driving, and maintenance.
- Keep levels between 20% and 80%
Recharge the battery to the full level daily but avoid fully draining the battery each day. A partial battery discharge will minimise all the stresses on the battery. Occasionally, a battery can be fully charged, but this should not be a regular practice.
- Manage temperature effectively
Temperature affects the battery’s performance. Some suggestions to manage temperatures related to battery use, charging, and maintenance can
- Park in the shade or use reflective covers
Precondition the battery before embarking in conditions of hot or cold weather. Ventilation during recharge to prevent overheating
- Drive smoothly and do not engage in aggressive driving
Rapid acceleration, frequent high-speed driving, and braking generate additional loads on the batteries, which in turn increase the generation of heat. Smooth driving reduces stress on the batteries, makes driving more energy-efficient, and extends the life of the batteries.EVs rely heavily on software to manage charging, thermal regulation, and power delivery. Regular updates improve battery management, adapt the vehicle to environmental changes, and optimise overall performance.
- Follow proper storage practices
If the EV will remain unused for a long period, store it in ideal conditions. Most manufacturers recommend keeping the battery at around 50% charge for long-term storage. Always refer to model-specific instructions to prevent over-discharge or overcharge.Correct tyre pressure affects energy efficiency and battery strain. Under-inflated tyres increase rolling resistance, causing the battery to work harder. Over-inflated tyres can compromise comfort and safety. Check tyres regularly to maintain optimal performance.Many modern EVs provide in-built diagnostics or companion apps to monitor battery health. These tools allow you to track capacity, detect anomalies early, and prevent serious issues before they arise.
Additional considerations for EV owners
- Long trips: Complete charging is acceptable during long journeys but is not advisable as a habit.
- Charging stations: Recommend the use of suggested charging converters to avoid overheating of the unit when fast charging.
- Environmental awareness: Protect your electric vehicle from exposure to extreme environmental conditions by parking it under an insulated shelter if it is to be used in very hot or cold climates.
