EV Battery Health Explained:
Tips to Maximise Your Range

 

Webuyurcar.co.uk Blogs

Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular across the UK — and for good reason. They’re quiet, clean, and cheaper to run than petrol or diesel cars. But like any car, EVs need looking after — and one of the most important (and expensive) components is the battery. Think of your EV battery like your smartphone’s — over time, it degrades. The good news? You can slow this process down and squeeze out more range from every charge.

What Is EV Battery Health?

Battery health refers to how well your EV’s battery can hold and deliver a charge compared to when it was new. Over time, its capacity naturally decreases — meaning your range shrinks too.

 

Typical battery degradation:

• 0.5% to 2.5% per year on average
• After 8 years, many EVs still retain 70–90% of their original capacity

Most manufacturers offer battery warranties up to 8 years or 100,000 miles, so you’re usually covered — but good habits help it last well beyond that.

 

Why Battery Health Matters

• Maintains Range – Healthy batteries give you longer real-world range
• Preserves Resale Value – Buyers prefer EVs with good battery health
• Better Charging Performance – Less degradation = faster, more efficient charging
• Peace of Mind – Less range anxiety on long journeys

 

Tips to Maximise Your EV Battery Life & Range

1. Don’t Always Charge to 100%

• Charging fully every time stresses the battery
• For daily driving, aim for 80–90%
• Reserve 100% only for long trips

Tip: Many EVs let you set a charging limit in the app or on the dashboard.

 

2. Avoid Deep Discharges (Below 10%)

• Running your battery flat can reduce its lifespan
• Try to keep it between 20–80% for regular driving

 

3. Limit Rapid Charging (When You Can)

• Fast chargers (like Ionity or BP Pulse ultra-rapid) are convenient, but generate more heat
• Frequent fast charging can slowly degrade the battery
• Use Level 2/slow charging overnight when possible

 

4. Precondition Your Battery in Winter

• Cold temps reduce battery efficiency and range
• Use preconditioning to warm the battery while plugged in
• It improves regen braking and saves energy while driving

Most EVs (like Tesla, Nissan Leaf, and Hyundai Ioniq 5) support this via app or schedule settings.

 

5. Park in Moderate Temperatures

• Extreme cold or heat impacts battery health
• Park in shaded areas or garages where possible
• Avoid leaving your EV plugged in at 100% in hot weather

 

6. Drive Smoothly

• Harsh acceleration or heavy braking drains the battery faster
• Use eco modes, cruise control, and regenerative braking
• Maintain steady speeds — avoid stop-start traffic if you can

 

7. Keep Tyres Properly Inflated

• Low pressure increases rolling resistance and reduces efficiency
• Check pressures monthly, especially in winter

 

8. Update Your Software

• Manufacturers often release updates that improve efficiency or extend range
• Keep your EV’s firmware up to date via app or dealership

 

How to Check Your EV Battery Health

• Dashboard readout – Some EVs (like Tesla or BMW i3) show battery degradation
• OBD2 tools & apps – Devices like LeafSpy (for Nissan Leaf) or Torque Pro
• Dealer diagnostics – For official readings (especially during warranty checks)

 

Final Thoughts

EV batteries are built to last — and with a bit of care, they’ll go the distance. By following these simple tips, you’ll:

• Maximise your driving range
• Protect long-term battery health
• Get better value if you sell or trade in

Treat your battery right, and it’ll reward you with smooth, silent miles for years to come.

Article posted on: 25 September 2025. Author: Megan

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