We all know that fuel cars need to be refueled regularly, and electric vehicles (EVs) require periodic charging. However, EVs are quite different from traditional fuel cars, and many people are unfamiliar with the process of charging them. Different charging methods can have varying impacts on the EV's battery. So, how should you correctly charge an electric vehicle? Today, Mr. Zhang will explain it to us.
Table of Contents
First, distinguish between fast charging and slow charging.
Slow charging, also known as AC charging, typically has a power output of less than 15 kilowatts, and it generally takes more than 6 hours to fully charge an EV. Fast charging, or DC charging, usually has a power output greater than 15 kilowatts and can charge 30% to 80% of the battery in as little as half an hour. Most of the new energy vehicles on the market today are either electric or plug-in hybrid cars. Most modern electric vehicles come equipped with both slow and fast charging ports, allowing owners to choose between slow and fast charging based on their needs. However, many older electric vehicles only support slow charging and are often incompatible with many of the fast charging stations available today.
Second, choose the appropriate time to charge.
Many people wonder whether it's better to charge the car whenever possible or to wait until the battery is completely drained. Mr. Zhang believes that neither charging whenever nor waiting until the battery is completely drained is ideal. Tesla has stated that charging the battery from 0% to 50% results in more than 3000 charge cycles, effectively doubling the battery's lifespan compared to fully charging and discharging it each time. However, it's impractical to use the battery until it reaches 0%. Generally, owners should consider charging when the battery level drops below 10%. While charging, avoid fully charging the battery; charging it to about 50% to 70% is sufficient. This should be adjusted based on individual usage. For daily commuting, cycling between 0% and 70% is acceptable. For long trips, charging to 100% is reasonable since battery lifespan isn't the only consideration.
Lastly, minimize the use of fast charging.
Many people think that fast charging can save time and enhance the driving experience, but research shows that consistently using fast charging can reduce the lifespan of the battery by 50%. Therefore, from a long-term perspective, it's advisable not to rely heavily on fast charging. It's recommended to primarily use slow charging and reserve fast charging for occasional use. Additionally, avoid charging the EV in cold conditions as it can cause lithium plating inside the battery, reducing its lifespan and potentially leading to short circuits within the cells.
Conclusion
The same electric car can have different lifespans depending on the driver. This variance in lifespan is not significantly influenced by driving habits but is primarily affected by charging habits. Therefore, it's essential for EV owners to develop good charging practices.
