How to Extend the Life of Your EV Battery
The battery is the heart of every electric vehicle (EV). It determines not only how far you can drive on a single charge, but also how long your car will remain reliable over years of ownership. With EVs becoming more popular across Queensland, many new owners are asking: how do I make my battery last as long as possible?
The good news is that modern EV batteries are designed to last. Most manufacturers offer warranties of eight years or more, often guaranteeing that the battery will retain at least 70% of its capacity during that time. However, your driving and charging habits can make a big difference. By following a few simple practices, you can extend the life of your EV battery and get the best performance for many years to come.
Avoid Frequent 100% Charging
One of the most effective ways to protect your battery is to avoid charging it to 100% every time. Lithium-ion batteries experience the most stress at very high and very low states of charge. Keeping your battery between roughly 20% and 80% for daily use helps minimise wear. Most EVs allow you to set a charging limit in the car’s software, so you can automatically stop charging at 80%.
Reserve full charges for when you need maximum range, such as long road trips.
Use Slower Charging When Practical
Fast charging (DC rapid charging) is convenient and sometimes necessary on long trips, but regular use can increase battery wear because it generates more heat. At home, using a Level 2 AC wall charger is much gentler on the battery. Most Queensland EV owners find that charging overnight at home is more than enough to meet their daily driving needs.
Keep an Eye on Temperature
Heat is one of the biggest factors in battery degradation, and Queensland’s climate can be challenging. Whenever possible, park your car in the shade, a garage, or under a carport to avoid leaving it in direct sun for long periods. Many EVs have thermal management systems that regulate battery temperature, but reducing exposure to extreme heat will still make a difference.
Schedule Charging at the Right Time
Smart chargers allow you to schedule charging to align with solar production or off-peak tariffs. This not only saves you money but also reduces battery stress by charging at a steady, controlled rate. By setting your charger to run during the day when solar is available, you’re effectively fuelling your EV with clean, renewable energy.
Avoid Leaving Your EV at 0% or 100% for Long Periods
Just as regular 100% charging isn’t ideal, leaving your car at very high or very low charge for days at a time can accelerate degradation. If you’re going away on holiday and won’t drive your EV for a while, aim to leave it at around 50% state of charge. This is the most stable level for lithium-ion batteries during storage.
Drive Smoothly and Efficiently
Hard acceleration and heavy regenerative braking put additional strain on the battery and drivetrain. By driving smoothly and planning ahead, you not only extend the life of your battery but also get more range out of every charge.
Routine Inspection and Software Updates
Just like any part of your vehicle, your battery system benefits from periodic inspection. During regular servicing, your electrician or dealer can check for issues such as charging port wear, cable condition, and cooling system performance. Manufacturers also release software updates that can improve battery management and efficiency — keeping your EV’s software up to date ensures you’re getting the best protection and performance.
The Bottom Line
EV batteries are built to last, but your habits as a driver and owner can make a significant difference in how long they retain capacity. By avoiding unnecessary full charges, using slower charging where possible, managing temperature, and scheduling smart charging, you can ensure your EV battery serves you well for many years. Combine this with routine inspections and smooth driving, and you’ll enjoy the full benefits of electric motoring with confidence.