Perhaps more than ever before, it seems like everything runs on batteries. Lithium batteries, rechargeable batteries, even your EV or hybrid runs on a very expensive battery.
If your phone needs a new battery, you can replace it or simply get another phone, but EV and hybrid cars still carry a hefty price tag, so this really isn’t an option for most people.
Did you know that there are steps you can take to prolong the life of that battery?
While the batteries that operate your EV or hybrid are really, really good, they can be even better and last longer by following just a few hacks.
Top Hacks for Extending Battery Life
These tips are so easy, you’ll wonder why you didn’t think of them yourself!
Hack #1- Avoid Fast Charging
Of course, everyone wants to get their ride back on the road ASAP and manufacturers know that if they tell you not to fast charge, you’ll start thinking about how fast it is to fill up a regular gas tank with fuel. If you must recharge quickly, be sure that it doesn’t become a habit. Like adding candy to your diet, a little bit now and again won’t hurt you, but it shouldn’t become a staple in your diet. The same is true with quick recharges.
Hack #2- Minimize the Amount of Time the Battery Stays At 100% Charged
While that nice 100% number gives you peace of mind, resist the urge to leave your EV or hybrid plugged in all night every night. If you generally use 30 to 40% of the battery life daily, it’s better to let it charge to 70-80 percent, then unplug it. Smart chargers are well worth the money as they will anticipate your daily driving needs and charge the battery accordingly.
Hack #3- Minimize the Amount of Time the Battery Spends at Zero
While most battery management systems will turn off the vehicle before you hit zero percent charge, leaving the car unplugged long enough that the battery hits zero and stays there is hard on the battery. Take the battery to 25 or 30 percent, then recharge it.
Hack #4- Minimize Extremely Hot Temperatures
Try to park your EV or Hybrid in the shade whenever temps go over 90 degrees. If possible, leave the vehicle plugged in so the thermal management system can function and help maintain the battery.
Hack #5- Minimize Exposure to Very Low Temperatures
You should also avoid leaving the vehicle unplugged during very low temps. Leaving your EV or hybrid plugged in will allow the thermal management system to keep the battery warm. Depending on the make of your vehicle, some systems will run the thermal management system automatically even if the car is not plugged in and it will keep running until the battery life hits 15 percent. On a really cold day, the chances that your car will start are minimal.
The Good the Bad and the Ugly
No one wants to park their EV only to discover that the battery is below 15 percent, and it can’t be started until it is charged.
In short, the things that EV and hybrid batteries hate are being unplugged in extreme temps, being fully charged all the time, being discharged all the time, and frequent fast charging.
Is this all very confusing? Call or stop by Bockman’s Auto, Truck & Tire. We will be happy to inspect your vehicle and explain things in detail so that you feel comfortable with your EV or hybrid, no matter where it may take you.
