Secrets of EV Battery Longevity and Durability
Electric vehicle (EV) owners and prospective buyers often worry about battery degradation. Fortunately, there are several simple steps you can take to extend the lifespan of your EV’s battery. Below, we outline five key tips to maximize battery longevity, plus a bonus tip that could be a game-changer for your EV experience.
1. Don’t Take It to the Max
One of the easiest ways to extend your battery life is by avoiding charging to 100% on a regular basis. Most EVs allow you to set a charging limit, typically through the infotainment system. Setting your charge limit to around 80% helps reduce battery strain and prolongs its lifespan.
That said, there are times when a full charge is necessary, such as for long road trips or extremely cold weather. Ford, for example, recommends charging the F-150 Lightning to 90% for daily use and only to 100% when extra range is needed.
2. Keep It Mid: Maintain a Moderate Charge Level
Batteries, like people, perform best when they aren’t pushed to extremes. It’s advisable to keep your battery’s state of charge between 20% and 80% whenever possible. Completely depleting the battery or regularly charging it to 100% can shorten its lifespan.
For example, BMW’s all-electric i4 owner’s manual recommends keeping the charge level between 10% and 80% to optimize the high-voltage battery’s service life.
3. Limit DC Fast Charging
DC fast charging is a great convenience for road trips, but it puts significant stress on an EV’s battery. Whenever possible, opt for Level 1 or Level 2 AC charging, which is gentler on the battery and better for long-term durability.
Many manufacturers caution against excessive DC fast charging. Mercedes-Benz, for example, advises EQE sedan owners to charge with direct current only when necessary to minimize battery wear.
4. Be Mindful of Extreme Temperatures
Temperature extremes can impact battery performance and longevity. In cold weather, precondition your battery before DC fast charging by either taking a short drive or using the vehicle’s preconditioning feature to warm it up.
Similarly, in extremely hot conditions, allowing your vehicle to cool down before charging can help preserve battery health. Some EVs will automatically manage battery temperature, but it’s still a good practice to be mindful of this factor.
5. Drive Like Your Kids Live Here
Aggressive driving with frequent hard acceleration and braking puts extra strain on your EV’s battery. Like traditional combustion engines, EV batteries degrade faster when subjected to constant heavy loads. Driving smoothly and efficiently can help maintain your battery’s health over time.
Bonus Tip: Consider an EV with an LFP Battery
If you’re in the market for an EV, consider one equipped with a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery. Unlike conventional lithium-ion batteries, LFP batteries are more durable, have a longer lifespan, and are less affected by high temperatures.
One major advantage? You don’t have to worry about limiting charge cycles—LFP batteries can be charged to 100% regularly without causing significant degradation. The downside is that they typically have lower energy density, meaning slightly reduced driving range. However, their longevity and stability make them an excellent choice for certain EV models.
Is Battery Degradation a Big Concern?
While taking care of your EV battery is important, degradation may not be as alarming as some fear. Studies suggest that EV batteries degrade at an average rate of about 2.3% per year. Even if we assume a higher degradation rate of 5% per year, an EV with 300 miles of range would still offer around 180 miles of range after a decade of use.
For comparison, combustion-powered vehicles also lose power and fuel efficiency over time. Given the gradual nature of EV battery degradation, many owners may never notice a significant impact on daily driving needs.
Conclusion
To maximize your EV battery’s longevity and durability, follow these best practices:
- Avoid charging to 100% regularly (unless using an LFP battery)
- Keep your charge level between 20% and 80%
- Use DC fast charging only when necessary
- Be mindful of extreme temperatures
- Drive smoothly and avoid aggressive acceleration
By implementing these tips, you can ensure your EV battery remains in top condition for years to come. Looking ahead, innovations in battery technology—like LFP chemistry—promise even greater durability and efficiency for the future of electric mobility.
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