The battery range of an electric vehicle is determined by several factors, including its capacity and driving style. Check the vehicle’s EPA combined-range rating or Rightcar website to estimate a specific EV’s estimated range.
Over time, all batteries degrade and lose some capacity to sustain a full charge. While losing 10-20% of a vehicle’s capacity isn’t necessarily a bad thing – it’s simply part of an electric vehicle’s normal lifespan.
Temperature
Temperature is an important factor for lithium-ion battery performance and safety. How temperature affects batteries at rest, while charging, and during cycling depends on the specific chemistries; however, high temperatures can lead to faster reactions that degrade the battery more rapidly.
Batteries are designed to operate within a narrow temperature range, so it is essential that the battery management system (BMS) regulates this range for safety and optimal performance. To do this, BMS monitors and controls the temperature of the electrolyte, which depends on chemical reactions within each cell.
A BMS can estimate the acid temperature of a battery by either using either an intuitive thermal model of the cell or by extrapolating from measurements of ambient air and engine coolant temperatures. Non-BMS vehicles often rely on models implemented in either their powertrain control module or body controller, which then calculate an average acid temperature based on measured ambient air and engine coolant temperatures as well as drive cycle information.
Temperature can affect the range of an electric vehicle in two ways: first, due to heat generated during charge-discharge cycles; and second, because different temperatures can be used for charging or discharging. This leads to heat-related degradation in the battery, decreasing its capacity and decreasing range.
Heat is generated during a battery’s charge-discharge cycle due to changes in entropy of the cell reaction and energy losses due to overpotential factors and ohmic resistance. Heat is dissipated to the environment during charging but reabsorbed by the battery during discharging; thus it must be managed for your battery to stay at an optimum temperature.
Although increasing the temperature of an electrolyte can increase battery capacity, this also increases self-discharge and drastically reduces life expectancy. Studies show that for every 15degC increase above 25degC (77degF), battery life is reduced by 60%.
Given the wide range of temperature variations that can occur between cells, it is imperative that battery management systems maintain a tight range for electrolyte temperatures to guarantee each cell remains at an optimum safety and consistent level. Furthermore, proper temperature management will keep cells within as small an interval as possible, avoiding temperature gradients between them or non-uniform states of charge between them – both dangerous conditions.
Driving Behaviors
Driver behavior is an integral factor in determining battery range, as it impacts the efficiency of an electric vehicle (EV). Driving at a suitable speed and with proper technique saves energy for the car; however, doing so may increase recharge time and decrease range.
Drivers are susceptible to range anxiety, which can cause them to alter their driving behaviour in dangerous ways. To combat this issue, drivers should be taught safe driving techniques and encouraged to practice them regularly.
Drivers should know their vehicle’s remaining range before setting off and be informed of available recharge infrastructure at all times. These driving habits not only help avoid getting stranded but also boost confidence that they have control of their vehicle.
Recently, a Chinese study involving 50 BEV owners revealed the impact of driving experience on range appraisal and stress levels. More driving was linked with less negative range appraisal and stress scores.
Furthermore, driving experience can influence a driver’s overall comfort with leaving enough safety buffer for their trips; this may help reduce range anxiety during long drives.
Temperature is another important factor that can impact driving efficiency. The lower the temperature, the better suited your car will run; its battery uses energy more effectively when cold.
Temperature can have an immense effect on a battery’s range performance, as it depletes it faster. This puts electric vehicles (EVs) at greater risk of running out of power sooner than anticipated and poses an increased chance for stranded drivers.
Geotab has conducted extensive research to better understand the relationship between temperature and driving behavior. They collected data from numerous in-use trips made at various temperatures, which covered a wide range of driving conditions such as terrain, speed, driver habits and trip length.
Regenerative Braking
Fuel efficiency is one of the major advantages electric vehicles (EVs) can enjoy thanks to regenerative braking. This technology transforms kinetic energy lost during deceleration back into electrical energy that can be used for acceleration again later on.
The amount of regenerative braking an electric car can use to extend its battery range depends on the vehicle and driver’s style of driving. On average, this method often captures 15-30% of lost kinetic energy during deceleration, drastically improving your overall driving range.
Regenerative braking is a groundbreaking new technology that utilizes the motor of an electric car to convert kinetic energy lost during deceleration into electrical power that can be used for acceleration again later. This system offers major benefits over traditional brakes, which rely on friction to slow down cars.
To activate the regenerative braking system, drivers simply lift their foot off the accelerator pedal. As they do so, a central computer signals the electric motor to turn into a generator and generate more torque.
Once the motor reaches this point, it can cease producing electricity and begin creating resistance that gradually reduces the vehicle’s speed until it comes to a complete stop.
Regenerative braking system performance can be affected by factors such as battery temperature or state of charge. In such instances, you have the option to turn off regenerative braking or have it automatically apply regular brakes for consistent deceleration.
Another advantage of regenerative braking is that it reduces wear-and-tear on a car’s mechanical brakes, potentially saving money in the long run. Brake pads in hybrids and electric vehicles (EVs) typically last twice as long or more than those found in non-hybrid gas-powered cars.
Regenerative braking offers many benefits, but its drawbacks can also be more noticeable. Many drivers report that the system feels “mushy” or has a different feel than traditional brakes; additionally, regenerative brakes tend to be less reliable at high speeds than friction braking systems.
Maintenance
Range is an essential consideration when it comes to electric vehicles (EVs). Not only is it essential for driving an EV, but ensuring you can travel the distance between charges also keeps your EV running efficiently and effectively.
Maintaining your electric vehicle’s battery is essential for extending its life, improving performance and guaranteeing peak reliability. Depending on the type of battery used, regular inspections may be required to keep it running optimally.
Begin your comprehensive inspection with a close look at all battery interconnect cables and their connections, checking for frayed or loose cable, broken terminals or any signs of potential corrosion. Doing this can help you detect problems before they become costly and disruptive affairs.
Maintaining a battery’s optimal temperature is another essential step to extend its life. For best results, store them between 68 to 86 degrees F (24 to 32 degrees C). Furthermore, it’s ideal to store them in climate-controlled rooms in order to minimize moisture buildup.
Battery maintenance can be a tedious task, but it is an essential one that should be done regularly. A well-thought out maintenance plan not only saves time but also money in the long run.
Batteries require regular charging to stay healthy, so following a strict schedule is key for maximizing their lifespan. Furthermore, bringing the battery up to full charge at the earliest opportunity helps avoid it from overheating.
Battery maintenance options abound, and selecting the right one for your company can make a major impact on productivity and efficiency. When selecting and implementing your program, always consider employees’ safety first; that is why having an effective safety plan that follows legal regulations is so crucial; not only will this cut insurance costs but also keep everyone secure in case of emergency.