
How to Maintain an Electric Car Battery to Make It Last Longer
Electric cars use batteries as their main source of power to move. Just like other components in a car, batteries also have a lifespan and can experience performance degradation. That is why EV users need to understand how to maintain their electric car batteries properly.
The battery is a crucial component in an electric vehicle that does not exist in conventional cars. Of course, every EV owner does not want to experience problems with their car’s battery. Therefore, maintaining an EV battery is very important to ensure its longevity and optimal performance.
With a well-maintained battery, you can drive more comfortably while saving money on battery replacements. Here are several ways to maintain your EV battery to keep it from wearing out too quickly.
1. Avoid Charging to 100% or 0%
Using the battery in extreme conditions, either when completely drained or fully charged, can negatively impact its health. It is crucial to keep the battery within its optimal range consistently to extend its lifespan.
Ideally, keep the battery capacity between 20% and 80%. This reduces the workload on the battery cells and slows down degradation.
Charging the battery to 100% is not recommended, even though it seems convenient. Fully charging can accelerate battery damage, as it increases stress on the cells.
Set your charging limit around 80% to 90%. Keeping it within this range helps maintain the battery’s health for longer.
2. Use Official Chargers and Avoid Excessive Fast Charging
Always use the original or manufacturer-approved charger to recharge your EV battery. Using the official charger helps protect the battery’s internal components from potential damage. It also ensures a stable electricity flow during the charging process.
It’s important to note that fast charging or ultra-fast charging delivers high amounts of current. If used too often, this can speed up the degradation of the battery cells.
That’s why it’s better to use slow charging more frequently. While it takes longer, slow charging is safer for your battery’s health compared to fast charging.
3. Avoid Extreme Temperatures
Keeping your vehicle’s temperature stable is important for maintaining the battery. Extreme heat or cold can seriously affect the battery and cooling system.
Ensure that your EV’s cooling system is working properly. In hot weather, it prevents the battery from overheating. In cold conditions, it helps maintain stability so that efficiency and battery life remain optimal.
Whenever possible, park your car in shaded or covered areas. Direct sunlight can reduce battery performance and shorten its lifespan. High ambient temperatures can lower the effectiveness of the battery cells and reduce their capacity.
4. Don’t Leave the Car Idle Too Long with a Full or Empty Battery
If you won’t be using the car for a long time, avoid leaving the battery empty. Letting the capacity drop below 10% can accelerate battery damage. Always keep the battery above the minimum threshold.
Even if the car is just parked in the garage, charging is still necessary if the battery drops below 20%. Always monitor the battery indicator so that its level remains safe and doesn’t harm the battery’s health.
5. Keep Input Voltage Stable
Unstable electricity during charging can damage the EV battery. Make sure your vehicle is connected to a power source with stable voltage. Fluctuating voltage can stress the battery, leading to faster cell damage and reduced lifespan.
When charging, ensure voltage settings are stable. One way to control input voltage is by adjusting the power mode used during charging.
6. Schedule Charging Times
Another way to maintain your EV battery is to set a regular charging schedule. With consistent timing, charging becomes more controlled. You can monitor the battery cycles and adjust them to your driving needs.
Setting a charging schedule also supports the battery management system. It helps keep the battery in optimal condition and prevents performance loss caused by irregular or excessive charging.
7. Avoid Sudden Acceleration
Although electric cars can deliver instant torque, excessive acceleration can negatively impact the battery’s health. Aggressive driving increases energy consumption and puts extra load on the motor.
To maximize energy efficiency and prolong battery life, it’s best to accelerate gradually. Adjust your driving style to the road conditions to prevent putting unnecessary strain on the battery.
How Many Years Does an EV Battery Last?
The lifespan of EV batteries varies. Generally, EV batteries can last between 10 to 15 years. Factors such as environmental temperature, charging habits, and driving style all influence battery durability.
How Much Does a New EV Battery Cost?
The price of a new EV battery varies depending on the type, capacity, and car brand. In general, EV battery replacement can cost tens to hundreds of millions of rupiah.
How Much Does It Cost to Charge an EV?
The charging rate at PLN’s public charging stations (SPKLU) follows the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Regulation No. 1 of 2023. The cost is around IDR 2,466 per kWh. Additionally, there are service fees: IDR 25,000 for fast charging and IDR 57,000 for ultra-fast charging per session.
These are some tips on how to maintain your EV battery so it lasts longer and performs optimally. Battery health can be preserved with safe and measured charging habits, balanced driving, and avoiding extreme temperatures. For those looking for an EV, check out the options at chery.co.id.