Electric vehicles (EVs) are growing in popularity across Australia, thanks to their lower running costs, reduced emissions, and advanced technology. However, maintaining the health of an EV’s battery is crucial for maximising efficiency, performance, and longevity.
Unlike traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, which rely on mechanical components requiring regular oil changes and tune-ups, EVs are built around sophisticated lithium-ion battery systems. Proper maintenance practices can help extend the lifespan of these batteries and prevent unnecessary degradation.
This guide explores best practices for battery care, key factors affecting battery longevity, and why professional servicing at an EV & Hybrid Network member workshop is the best way to ensure your EV continues to operate at peak efficiency.
Understanding EV Battery Chemistry and Its Impact on Longevity
Most modern EVs use lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries, though different vehicles may feature varying battery chemistries. Each chemistry has its own advantages, limitations, and response to factors like charge speed, temperature, and depth of discharge.
Common EV Battery Chemistries:
- Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC): The most widely used battery chemistry, offering a balance between energy density, lifespan, and thermal stability. However, NMC batteries can degrade faster if frequently exposed to high charge currents and heat.
- Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP): Known for longer cycle life and greater thermal stability, LFP batteries are more resistant to high temperatures but have a lower energy density than NMC batteries, which can slightly reduce range.
- Nickel Cobalt Aluminium (NCA): Used by Tesla and some other manufacturers, NCA batteries provide high energy density but can experience increased degradation under frequent fast charging.
- Lithium Titanate (LTO): A less common but highly durable chemistry with excellent lifespan and charge rate tolerance, though with lower energy density.
How Chemistry Affects Battery Care:
- Charging habits matter more for some chemistries than others. LFP batteries, for instance, are more resistant to degradation when regularly charged to 100%, while NMC and NCA batteries benefit from maintaining a charge range of 20–80%.
- Temperature sensitivity varies. NMC and NCA batteries degrade faster under high heat, while LFP batteries handle temperature fluctuations more effectively.
- Charge speed tolerance differs. LTO and some LFP batteries can handle frequent DC fast charging with minimal degradation, whereas NMC and NCA chemistries should avoid repeated high-speed charging to preserve longevity.
Understanding your EV’s specific battery chemistry can help you adopt the best charging and maintenance practices.
Best Practices for Maximising EV Battery Life
- Limit Frequent Use of DC Fast Charging
DC fast charging (Level 3) is convenient for long-distance travel but generates more heat than slower AC charging, which can accelerate battery degradation, particularly in NMC and NCA batteries.
Best practice:
- Use Level 2 home charging (7–22 kW AC) as the primary charging method.
- Reserve DC fast charging (50–350 kW DC) for road trips or when a quick charge is essential.
- If using a fast charger, avoid charging beyond 80%, as the final 20% generates more heat and slows the charge rate.
- Maintain an Optimal State of Charge
Keeping an EV battery consistently at 100% or allowing it to drop below 10% can stress battery cells and accelerate degradation. However, this rule is more applicable to NMC and NCA batteries, while LFP batteries can tolerate frequent full charges.
Best practice:
- Set charging limits between 20% and 80% for daily use (except for LFP batteries, which benefit from full charges).
- Charge to 100% only when needed for longer trips.
- If an EV will be parked for extended periods, keep the charge level between 40–60%.
- Minimise Exposure to Extreme Temperatures
High temperatures accelerate chemical reactions that degrade battery cells, while extreme cold can temporarily reduce performance. Many EVs use active battery thermal management, but additional precautions can help.
Best practice:
- Park in shaded areas or garages to reduce heat exposure.
- Precondition the battery before driving in cold weather to optimise performance.
- Avoid charging an EV immediately after driving in extreme heat, as the battery will already be warm.
- Use Regenerative Braking Efficiently
Regenerative braking converts kinetic energy into stored electricity, improving efficiency and range. However, excessive regenerative braking can generate heat, which may accelerate wear in some battery chemistries.
Best practice:
- Adjust regenerative braking levels based on driving conditions.
- Use higher regeneration in stop-and-go traffic but reduce it on highways to prevent unnecessary thermal buildup.
- Follow a Smart Charging Routine
Using smart charging features helps optimise battery lifespan by scheduling charging during cooler times and reducing peak electricity demand.
Best practice:
- Charge overnight during off-peak hours to reduce strain on the grid and take advantage of lower electricity rates.
- Enable scheduled charging to avoid overcharging and unnecessary battery stress.
- If available, use a smart charger that adjusts charging rates based on grid demand and battery temperature.
Signs That Your EV Battery Needs Attention
- Reduced driving range: A decline in range over time suggests gradual capacity loss, which is normal but should be monitored.
- Slower charging speeds: If an EV charges noticeably slower, the battery management system may be limiting charge speed to protect degraded cells.
- Overheating issues: Frequent warnings of battery overheating indicate potential cooling system faults or excessive charging stress.
- Dashboard warning lights: Any battery-related alerts should be inspected immediately by a trained technician.
If any of these issues arise, consult an EV & Hybrid Network workshop to diagnose and resolve potential battery concerns.
Why Choose an EV & Hybrid Network Workshop for Battery Maintenance?
EV batteries require specialised expertise, tools, and diagnostic equipment to assess health and efficiency properly. EV & Hybrid Network workshops are uniquely equipped to provide this service, ensuring your battery is maintained according to manufacturer standards.
Advantages of Choosing an EV & Hybrid Network Member Workshop:
- Certified technicians trained in EV battery diagnostics, repairs, and thermal management.
- Advanced diagnostic tools to assess battery health, state of charge, and potential cell imbalances.
- Safe handling of high-voltage systems, ensuring proper service procedures and compliance with industry safety standards.
- Expert guidance on the best charging habits and maintenance strategies tailored to your EV’s specific battery chemistry.
Conclusion: Protecting Your EV Battery for Long-Term Performance
By understanding battery chemistry, adopting proper charging habits, and managing exposure to extreme temperatures, EV owners can significantly extend the lifespan of their vehicle’s battery. While all batteries degrade over time, proactive maintenance and professional servicing can slow the process and maximise efficiency.
For comprehensive battery health checks and expert EV servicing, visit an EV & Hybrid Network member workshop. These specialists have the knowledge and equipment to ensure your battery continues to perform at its best, helping you enjoy reliable and efficient electric driving for years to come.
Find an EV & Hybrid Network workshop near you today for professional battery care and maintenance.