Vital warnings for electric vehicle owners: Here are 5 mistakes that drain battery life!

The rate of adoption of electric vehicles around the world and in Türkiye is increasing day by day. Instant torque power, low emission values ​​and reduced maintenance costs are among the factors that make electric vehicles attractive. However, drivers who switch from gasoline or diesel vehicles to electric vehicles often face a learning process. Those who think that the difference between the two vehicle types is only the engine are making a big mistake. To extend battery life, maintain range and have a safer driving experience, experts point out 5 critical mistakes that electric vehicle owners should not make. GIVE UP THE HABIT OF 100 PERCENT CHARGING Users of vehicles with internal combustion engines are generally used to filling their tanks fully. However, fully charging electric vehicles negatively affects battery health. In models that do not have a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, constantly charging the battery to 100 percent shortens battery life in the long run. According to the SlashGear site, experts recommend keeping the charge level between 20 percent and 80 percent for daily use, except for long trips. In this way, you can extend the life of the vehicle by reducing battery wear. CONTINUOUSLY USING FAST CHARGING (DC) IS RISKY. Although time-saving DC fast charging stations offer great convenience for electric vehicle owners, using them every day damages the battery. High-voltage direct current causes overheating in the battery, accelerating the movement of lithium ions and reducing its charge-holding capacity over time. It is stated that fast charging should only be preferred on long journeys or in emergencies. Using slower AC charging units in daily routines allows the battery to be charged by resting. TIRE WEAR IS IGNORED Electric vehicles are much heavier than their internal combustion counterparts due to the weight of their battery packs. The added weight puts extra pressure on the tires, causing them to wear out faster. Frequent checking of tires is of great importance in terms of both safety and cost. In addition, choosing tires with low rolling resistance, specially designed for electric vehicles, affects the range positively. AVOID PRESSING THE GAS PEDAL TO THE FULLEST. Although the instant torque and acceleration feeling offered by electric motors may be enjoyable for drivers, suddenly loading the pedal causes a large power draw from the battery. Continuous sudden accelerations significantly reduce the range of the vehicle and cause the tires to wear out more quickly. It opens. Those who want to reach the range promised by the manufacturer should prefer smoother and controlled acceleration. DO NOT DELAY SOFTWARE UPDATES Today’s electric cars are equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and Battery Management Systems (BMS). In order for these to work better, it is vital that the software updates released by the manufacturers are made in a timely manner. Updates not only fix bugs, but also improve battery management, increasing range and optimizing temperature control during charging.

Automobile Magazine – English