What is the 80 20 rule for EV charging?
It means always keeping your electric vehicle (EV) charged above 20%, and never topping it up over 80%. We’ll explain how this works and why it’s important. If you’re new to EVs, it’s natural to want to fully top up. But there’s a good reason for the rule, and 80% is usually more than enough for most journeys. Simply, the 20-80% rule suggests keeping the battery of an electric vehicle charged between 20% and 80% of full capacity. It’s a method of electric vehicle charging meant to improve battery life. Think of it as the green zone.Ideally, you should charge your phone when its battery level drops to around 20-30% and unplug it once it reaches 80-90%. There’s no specific number of times you should charge your phone in a day; it depends on your usage. Just avoid letting the battery drain completely and frequently charging it to 100%.The 80/20 rule for lithium batteries recommends: Charge up to 80% for daily use. Charge to 100% only when needed, such as before a long trip or a full discharge cycle. Avoid letting the battery discharge lower than 20%.
Is it OK to charge EV to 90%?
Most drivers will find that charging to 80% or 90% meets their everyday needs and helps maintain EV battery health. Choose the charging level that best fits your driving habits and needs, while considering the trade-offs between range and battery longevity. A 2022 study by Geotab found that most EV batteries degrade at a rate of only 2. That means after 5 years, your battery will still hold over 88% of its original range.As EVs get older, the batteries progressively degrade. It is expected that at around 75% of the battery’s original capacity, it has reached the end of its life in an EV. In reality what this means is that if the car was sold with 400 km driving range, at the end of its useful life it could be down to around 300 km.It’s often said that frequent Level 3 fast charging can cause an EV’s battery to degrade over time. But data from industry aggregator Recurrent shows that modern EVs’ software protects battery capacity and range over many years.Level 3 Charging: What’s the Difference? When comparing EV charging options, one factor stands above all others: speed. While Level 2 charging steadily adds 40-60 kilometers of range each hour, Level 3 systems can pump up to 300 kilometers of range into your vehicle in just half an hour.
Is it better to slow or fast charge EV?
Additionally, slow charging is often done overnight at home during off-peak electricity hours, which can reduce your energy costs compared to using fast chargers during peak times. In essence, slow charging not only protects your battery but also your wallet, making it a smart choice for cost-conscious EV owners. Smart chargers are not just fast, they can also save you money. By taking advantage of the various policies and incentives available, you can make the most out of your EV ownership experience while contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable future.A 7kW charger is the most practical choice for most UK homes, providing full overnight charging without requiring electrical upgrades. W chargers are increasingly outdated, taking 18-20 hours to fully charge modern EVs, while 22kW chargers require expensive three-phase power most homes don’t have.A rapid charger is rated at 50kw and can zap your battery with 80% charge in just 40 minutes, but homes cannot facilitate a rapid charger due to the amount of power they require. The vast majority of EV Rapid Chargers are located at service stations, rest stops and other public locations.Leaving your EV charger on overnight is not only safe and convenient but also the most efficient way to keep your car charged for most EV owners.
Should I charge my EV to 100% every night?
You should not charge your EV to 100% regularly. For daily driving, it’s best to keep your battery between 20% and 80% to protect battery health and extend its lifespan. It’s best to keep your EV’s charge between 20% and 80% most days. Daily top-ups prevent the need for full charges which helps maintain battery health. If you charge the EV battery up to 100% regularly, it can strain it. Conversely if you regularly let it drop too low, it can cause the battery to wear.
Does EV charger brand matter?
However, a common question among new EV owners is: Does it matter what EV charger I choose for my new electric car? The answer is a resounding yes. Choosing the right EV charger is crucial for convenience, efficiency, and overall satisfaction with your electric driving experience. To recap, 3. W car chargers, or any type of 3kW home EV chargers, may not be the best solution for those who want a future-proof EV charging unit at home. In our opinion, a 7kW charger is better than a 3. W EV charger for home EV charging as it charges twice as fast and provides more flexibility for the future.In our opinion, a 7kW charger is better than a 3. W EV charger for home EV charging as it charges twice as fast and provides more flexibility for the future. There is limited difference in price of the two EV chargers, too.