At some time, EV owners may need to consider long-term storage solutions for their automobiles. So, whether you’re relocating, taking a vacation, or storing your electric vehicle for the winter, these tips will help you keep your EV safe and properly conserved.
1. Don’t leave your EV plugged in.
Even though keeping your electric vehicle plugged in with the charger may seem like a good idea since they tend to lose charge when left idle, it will only end in damaging the battery life of your vehicle. Keeping your EV plugged in when it is fully charged and in storage will harm the high-voltage battery.
Instead, charge it to around 80% and then disconnect the electric car. Leaving the cords connected increases the risk of battery problems, which might result in a battery change when you return to your car.
2. Choose a dry and climate-controlled spot indoors.
Although cars are used to being parked outside on a daily basis, the situation is different when it comes to long-term electric vehicle storage. When preparing your electric vehicle for storage, it’s best to avoid parking it outside and instead find an inside place, such as a garage.
Parking your EV outside for a long time can result in temperature fluctuations and excessive heat or cold might shorten the battery’s life. For the finest storage, look for a garage that is climate controlled. If you don’t have access to a garage, storing your electric vehicle beneath a carport or shade awning is better to leave it in full sunshine. If you choose a carport or shade structure, keep in mind that the battery will still be affected by the intense cold throughout the winter.
3. Keep your EV’s battery healthy by replacing it with a trickle charger.
A battery charger that charges at a low amperage is referred to as a trickle charger. Many battery chargers produce different amperages, with the goal of charging a battery slowly or fast depending on the situation. Some are also made to be left connected for an extended period of time without overcharging.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. How long can an electric car sit before the battery dies?
A. Usually, your car’s battery will die after 4 weeks to 2 months of not being driven. The fact that your vehicle battery is in use even when you are not driving is why it can only sit for so long before dying.
Q. Should I charge my electric car every night?
A. You should not charge your electric car every night in general. Charging an electric vehicle every night might reduce the battery pack’s lifespan.
Q. Can you sit in the EV while charging?
A. Sitting in an electric vehicle is similar to sitting in your car while filling up on petrol. Because EVs are well-designed to protect user safety, there is a rare chance of electrocution when sitting in them while charging.
Q. Do you have to pay for parking when charging the car?
A. Typically you do not have to pay for parking while your EV is charging. However, the EV must be connected in and actively charging. The control hours in effect at these bays are intended to encourage car turnover during the day while providing residents with extended times to charge overnight.
Q. How long does it take to charge an electric car?
A. If you start from scratch, a completely slow charge will take about eight hours.
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