Five ways to keep your EV battery in top shape 

Each year, an Electric Vehicle (EV) battery may shed around 2.3% of its range, if kept correctly. That’s 17km of range over 5 years from an EV vehicle with a battery capacity of 150km, which shouldn’t affect your commutes.   
  
Here’s a couple of tips to help you can preserve the lifespan of your battery and get the most out of your investment.

Charge small and frequent  

Charge your EV in small, frequent intervals instead of one large charge. Imagine it like spacing out your food rather than having one big meal. The depth of discharge is the amount of power used between charges and batteries last longer with lower depths of discharge.  

Line up your commute  

Charge your EV right before use whenever possible. This helps reduce the amount of time electricity is being stored at high percent, which can help maintain battery health over time.  

The 80/20 rule  

Keep your battery’s charge between 20% and 80% charge. Maintaining a minimum charge level extends the battery’s lifespan. Keeping under 80% charge leaves room for EV’s regenerative braking systems to regain charge as you drive, if your EV has this feature.  

Keeping under 80% charge leaves room for EV’s regenerative braking systems to regain charge as you drive.

Temperature matters  

Temperatures over 35 degrees Celsius can cause battery degradation, while your range can take a temporary dive if it’s under 10 degrees Celsius. Cold temperatures can affect the battery's ability to deliver power.

Park in shaded areas when warm or in the garage when cold. The car’s systems have to warm up the battery before charging can begin, and the battery has to have enough power left for those systems to run.  

Put it away properly  

To take care of your EV's battery during periods of inactivity, follow the manufacturer's guidelines on storing it with the right charge, for the right amount of time.  
  
Learn more about home charging stations to get the most out of your charge