Maximising your electric car's lifespan

Can you drive an electric car if the battery is almost empty, and only recharge it at the last minute?
No. Because this puts strain on the battery cells. "An electric car battery works in a similar way to that of a smartphone," explains Valentin Peter, Head of E-Mobility Services at Migrol. "In both cases, a deep discharge, i.e. reaching zero percent charge, should be avoided because it shortens the life of the battery." Fortunately, there's an increasingly extensive network of charging points in Switzerland (see box). This means you can always find somewhere to recharge your electric car in good time.

Should the battery be charged to 100%?
"We recommend only charging the battery to around 80%," Peter says. "The charge power usually decreases in the last 20%, which extends the charging time."

What happens if a charging station indicates output of 200kW, but your electric car can only handle 50kW?
"The electric vehicle determines the charging capacity," Peter explains. Not all electric vehicles can charge at the same rate. Some can charge at up to 350kW, others only at 50kW. But that doesn't mean there's something wrong with the car or the charging station.

What charge level is recommended if you don't use an electric vehicle for longer periods, for example when you're away on holiday?
Europe's largest automobile club, the ADAC in Germany, recommends a charge level of 30% to 70% in this situation. This is best for the battery, which barely discharges when not in use. This also means you're ready to go again when you get back from your holiday.

What effect does ambient temperature have on electric vehicles?
"Cold temperatures slow down the chemical processes in the battery," Peter says. "This reduces an electric car's range temporarily." In winter, it's a good idea to preheat your car and by doing so also the battery before setting off. That's better for the battery and also more comfortable for the driver.

What's the maximum battery life with good maintenance?
"At present, most electric vehicle manufacturers generally guarantee a battery service life of at least eight years or between 160,000 and 240,000 kilometres," Peter says. "But that doesn't mean the battery is unusable afterwards. Its storage capacity is still about 70% of its original level. It just means you have to charge it more often." For some drivers, that isn't a major problem. Others have the battery replaced or buy a new car.