Is it Bad to Keep Your Electric Vehicle (EV) Plugged In When Not Using It?
Many electric vehicle (EV) owners wonder if leaving their car plugged in is beneficial or detrimental, especially when not in immediate use. This article addresses common concerns and provides insights into the best practices for EV maintenance and charging.
Thermal Conditioning and Battery Health
Keeping your EV plugged in can indeed be beneficial, particularly when it comes to pre-conditioning. In cold weather, for example, many modern EVs can use the charger's power to warm the battery, ensuring it remains above a minimum temperature. This process is less stressful on the battery than drawing power directly from the vehicle's own energy reserves. Similarly, in hot weather, the charger can help cool the battery, maintaining optimal operating conditions. This can enhance driving performance and safety.
Charge Level Management
While keeping your EV plugged in can be positive for battery health, it's important to manage the charge level. Older models like the 2018 Chevy Bolt may charge to 100% without a limit option. This can be inefficient and potentially shorten battery lifespan. It is generally recommended to keep the charge between 20% and 80% for maximum battery longevity.
Modern models, such as the 2022 Bolt EUV, offer the convenience of setting specific charge levels. With these newer EVs, you can set a target charge level and let the car manage the rest. This feature not only saves energy but also reduces the stress on the battery. However, with older models, you may need to manually monitor and adjust the charging schedule to stay within these optimal levels.
Energy Consumption and Battery Life
Leaving an EV plugged in overnight even if it doesn't need charging is generally not harmful. Modern EVs have built-in systems that help prevent overcharging and ensure the battery stays within safe limits. However, if you are concerned about energy consumption or the long-term health of the battery, it is recommended to unplug the vehicle once it reaches a sufficient charge level. This can be around 80%, depending on the model.
Tesla’s Experience
One notable example is the Tesla model, which has demonstrated consistent performance over the past six years. According to experienced Tesla owners, plugging the car in regularly reduces the need to draw power directly from the battery, which is less taxing on the system. This not only helps maintain battery health but also ensures the vehicle is ready for immediate use without relying on battery power for thermal conditioning.
Conclusion
In summary, keeping your EV plugged in can be beneficial for maintaining battery health, especially when used for pre-conditioning. However, managing the charge level is crucial for long-term battery life and energy efficiency. With the convenience of modern EVs and their built-in systems, owners can make the most of their charging routines while minimizing potential drawbacks.