Leaving Your Electric Vehicle Unused for Extended Periods: What You Need to Know
If you’re considering purchasing an electric vehicle (EV) but worry about leaving it unused for months, you’re not alone. Many potential buyers face this dilemma, especially those who travel frequently or have periods of extended absence. The good news is that with proper preparation and understanding of EV battery behavior, you can enjoy peace of mind while your car remains stationary.
How Long Does an EV Battery Hold Its Charge?
Most experts agree that an EV battery loses between 1-2% of its charge monthly when not in use. This means that if you charge your car to 80% before leaving, it should still retain a significant amount of charge after several months. Charging to 80% is actually recommended for long-term storage as it’s better for battery health than a full charge. At a 2% monthly loss rate, it would take over three years for the battery to completely drain from an initial 80% charge.
It’s worth noting that even when an EV’s battery reads as ’empty,’ there’s typically some reserve charge left. Manufacturers deliberately leave a small buffer to prevent the battery from completely flattening, as this can be harmful to its long-term health.
Preparing Your EV for Extended Storage
Before leaving your car unused for an extended period, there are several steps you should take:
- Charge the traction battery to around 80%.
- Disconnect the 12V battery (which powers the car’s accessories) to prevent parasitic drain. This might reset some of your car’s computer settings, but it won’t cause any lasting harm.
- Alternatively to disconnecting the 12V battery, you could use a trickle charger to keep it topped up.
- Increase the tire pressure to around 50psi to prevent flat-spotting. Remember to return it to normal pressure before driving.
Charging Considerations for Long-Term Storage
While it might be tempting to leave your EV plugged into a charger, it’s not recommended to do so for extended periods, especially using a three-pin socket. These aren’t designed for continuous high-power use, and prolonged charging could pose a risk.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure your electric vehicle remains in good condition while it’s not in use, ready to be driven away when you return.
