Electric vehicles (EVs) are at the heart of a green revolution in the automotive industry, promising reduced emissions and a move toward sustainable living. However, like any technology, EV batteries are not immune to wear and tear and may eventually degrade.
Look for these signs of battery degradation in your electric car to maintain its performance.
1. Reduced Driving Range
A reduced driving range is one of the first signs of battery degradation drivers may notice. New EVs travel a certain distance at a full charge, determined by the battery’s capacity. Over time, this capacity decreases due to chemical changes within the battery.
If you’re not getting as many miles as you did when your car was fresh off the lot, the battery health could be declining.
2. Slow Charging Speeds
Charging an EV may take a while, especially if you rely on public charging stations rather than a fast charger at home. However, as your battery ages, you may notice it takes longer to complete a charge.
This slowdown in charging speed is another common sign of battery degradation. Pay attention to the health of the battery if your electric car is taking longer than normal to charge.
3. Increased Battery Cooling and Heating Needs
Batteries are sensitive to temperature changes. Extreme heat and cold negatively impact the efficiency and lifespan of your EV’s battery. If your car uses the climate control system (or if your model offers battery conditioning features) more often, it could be responding to your battery’s increased need for thermal management. As the battery degrades, it may require more active temperature regulation to maintain optimal performance.
4. Rapid Capacity Loss
A rapid loss of capacity manifests as a sudden decrease in the stored energy that powers your vehicle. If you’re noticing a decline in the time it takes the battery to go from full to empty, the battery is dying. Keep in mind that despite their capacity loss, EV batteries have longer lifespans than people think. Most commuters have successful trips after losing 20 percent of their EV’s capacity!
Preventative Measures and Solutions
EV owners may adopt several preventative strategies to mitigate the effects of battery degradation in their cars. Regular battery diagnostics and condition monitoring help them identify early signs of capacity loss, allowing for timely intervention. For example, applying high-voltage measurement equipment optimizes automotive performance and prevents untimely breakdowns.
Improving charging habits, such as avoiding complete discharges, also extends battery life. Additionally, parking and storing your EV in temperate environments, such as in a garage, under a car port, or in the shade, preserves battery health. Implementing these measures and following the manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations prolongs the lifespan of an EV’s battery, ensuring sustained performance through eco-friendly means.
Awareness of these common signs of battery degradation and taking the necessary steps to slow the process will ensure your EV continues to take you where you need to go. Remain vigilant in maintaining your electric vehicle, and get a long-lasting battery for the road ahead!
