The appeal of owning an electric vehicle (EV) grows each and every day. With environmentally friendly upsides and exciting performance capabilities brought to life by near-instantaneous torque, it’s no surprise that shoppers are eager to secure the keys to a new EV. That said, some drivers have questions and concerns about EV battery maintenance and EV battery lifespans.
Here at #1 Cochran, we understand the desire to learn as much as possible before investing in a new vehicle. Purchasing an electric vehicle involves some of the most significant decisions imaginable. Luckily, you have our EV Specialists to offer support.
Whether you’re shopping for a new EV or a pre-owned bargain for your teen driver, we’ll guide you through every step of the process. With us, you won’t regret your purchase decision. Take the stress out of EV shopping and explore EV battery charging best practices and maintenance tips with our service experts below.
Today’s EVs use lithium-ion batteries, so caring for them in the right way is essential for a long lifespan. Adopting proper charging habits is one of the easiest ways to care for your electrified ride. Many EV battery charging best practices are intuitive and straightforward, but the information is spread across the web. Here, you can review the latest expert tips from sources like Wired, Autotrader, Green Cars, and more. Explore EV battery charging best practices here:
1. Avoid Charging Your EV to the Max
Whether powering a cell phone or an entire vehicle, lithium-ion batteries behave the same. One of their quirks is that they don’t operate well when constantly charged to 100%. For EVs, experts like the ones at the Department of Transportation recommend maintaining a charge level of about 80%.
2. Avoid Fast Charging
While convenient, Level 3 rapid EV chargers should be used sparingly. Each rapid charger usage robs your EV battery of a bit of its lifespan. If you do use a rapid charger, plan longer drives between each charge and precondition your battery for charging to make the most of your charge time.
3. Plan Your Charging Route
Generally, you’ll want to maintain a charge level between 20% and 80%. Planning your routes ensures that you won’t ever drain your battery too far. What’s more, if you add your charging stops to your EV’s GPS, your vehicle can precondition itself for optimal charging.
4. Set a Timer for Charging
Charging your EV overnight is safe and convenient. However, there are steps that can be taken to ensure that this charging method is optimal. If possible, set your EV charger to shut off an hour or so before your daily departure time. You can also preset your internal climate preferences so your vehicle is ready when you want to drive, saving battery power when you hit the streets.
While many EVs are incredibly affordable, it’s true that opting for a new EV is often more expensive than going with a traditional combustion-engine-powered vehicle. Luckily, fuel savings and reduced maintenance make EV ownership more affordable, so you can enjoy lower costs for the lifespan of your car.
With your EV purchase price in mind, you likely want to maximize your battery life to ensure a long lifespan and the best possible return on your investment. How can you make the most of your electric vehicle? Review our EV battery maintenance tips and tricks below:
1. Drive Slower:
When commuting, you may feel tempted to make up for lost time with rapid driving. Driving slower is not only safe and responsible, but it’s great for your EV battery. Fast driving forces your battery to work harder than necessary, which leads to sooner-than-average degradation.
2. Be Mindful of Your Environment:
Whether you’re dealing with hot or cold temperatures, you’ll need to be mindful of how your EV is impacted by its environment. In warm climates, finding a shady place to park is essential. Many EVs have an internal thermal management system to maintain optimal conditions. When your car sits in the sun, the battery is asked to work harder to maintain a cooler temperature.
When traveling in colder climates, EV battery maintenance should be front of mind. Charging an EV in freezing temps can shorten lifespan and cause damage to the battery. How can you prevent this? Via Wired, EV expert Qichao Hu suggests driving around for a while to give your vehicle time to warm up. That ensures you won’t be charging your battery when it’s in a dangerously cold state.
3. Precondition Your Battery:
EVs do their best charging when the external temperature is between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. If your environment doesn’t match that range, you can precondition your vehicle to charge in its most optimal state. The best way to achieve this is to program your charging destination into your internal GPS. As you approach your charging destination, your EV can precondition itself for ideal charging.
4. Maintain an Optimal State During Storage:
Whether you’re purchasing an EV for weekend adventures or you spend a lot of your time away from home, there are a number of reasons why your EV may sit idle for long stretches of time. While this scenario is ripe for EV battery degradation, you can take a few simple steps to maintain your battery.
Most EVs allow you to proactively prevent the battery problems that arise from leaving your vehicle parked for an extended period of time. Generally, you’ll want to leave your EV plugged in during storage, but you don’t want it charging at full capacity. You can put your vehicle into its version of a long-term storage mode or set the internal system to maintain a comfortable charge level between 20% and 80%.
While making the switch to an EV over a familiar gas-powered vehicle can feel intimidating, you can rest assured that the team here at #1 Cochran is on your side. We can help you study EV basics to ease your range anxiety, provide insights on various OEM EV advantages, and even help you determine which new EV matches your budget and wishlist. We also offer additional advantages like extended battery warranties through Assurant EV One and fast, affordable home charger installation from Emporia Energy.
Whether you’re ready to buy or simply have a few more EV questions you’d like to ask, you can get in touch with our team for the guidance, support, and answers you need. Contact us today to take the next step in your EV journey.
No matter if you drive a vehicle with an internal combustion engine (ICE) or fully-electric powertrain, your vehicle is a complex piece of machinery that will require routine maintenance from time to time. When you compare an EV maintenance schedule vs. ICE maintenance schedule, you will see that there are many similarities and many differences. Our #1 Cochran EV Specialists have prepared a guide that compares EV maintenance vs. ICE maintenance so you can estimate the associated costs for maintaining each type of vehicle.
Some drivers are hesitant to make the switch to an electric vehicle like the VW ID.4 or Kia EV6 because of concerns about the cost of replacing an EV battery. Did you know that the Federal Regulation for Electric Car Battery Warranties requires all U.S. automakers to provide between eight and 10 years (or 100,000 miles) of warranty coverage on all EV batteries? Because of this, and the fact that EV batteries are known for their longevity, you may never need to replace the battery in your EV. Batteries for internal combustion vehicles generally need to be replaced every four to five years, but they are much more affordable.
In newer vehicles with an internal combustion engine, oil changes are usually recommended every 7,500 miles or so. This service interval may vary based on your driving habits. There is no oil system in an electric vehicle, so regular oil changes are a thing of the past.
Combustion engines generate a lot of heat, and every single vehicle currently sold in America has a radiator, hoses, a thermostat, a water pump and belts to turn the pump. Regular cooling system maintenance requires:
● Thermostat replacement
● Belt replacement
● Fluid flushes
Radiators are rarely repaired nowadays, and the cost of replacement is around $700-$850. What is the difference between EV maintenance vs. ICE maintenance for the cooling system? EVs do have a cooling system, but the maintenance needed is minimal.
Modern internal combustion engines have very complex fuel and ignition systems. Fuel systems contain components such as fuel injectors, fuel rails, coil packs and engine control units (ECUs). Replacing a fuel injector on a six-cylinder engine will usually cost at least $400. EVs have no fuel systems to maintain.
When it comes to EV maintenance vs. ICE maintenance for your tires, the tires on an ICE vehicle and the tires on an EV require the same services, like tire rotations. Keep in mind that in some cases, the added weight of an EV battery may cause tires to wear down a bit faster.
When it’s time for vehicle service, you can trust the factory-certified technicians at #1 Cochran to take care of your vehicle with professionalism and attention to detail. We have the most advanced tools, OEM parts and EV certified equipment to get the job done. Plus, we also offer EV roadside assistance with available towing and on-the-spot charging.
Set up an appointment at any of our locations, or contact us for details.
In the realm of electric vehicles, regenerative braking stands out as a groundbreaking technology that enhances efficiency and sustainability. But what is regenerative braking exactly, and how does regenerative braking work for drivers? Below, we’ll delve into the science behind regenerative braking, exploring its principles, benefits, and impact on EV performance. And if you still find yourself curious or have questions that you need answered, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
At its core, Regenerative braking is a sophisticated technology used in electric and hybrid vehicles to convert kinetic energy into electrical energy during braking. Unlike conventional friction-based braking systems, which dissipate kinetic energy as heat through brake pads and rotors, regenerative braking harnesses this energy and stores it in the vehicle’s battery for later use. This means that every time you press on the brakes while cruising around , you are putting a little extra charge back into the battery.
While generative braking basics may be easy to understand, how regenerative braking works is a very different thing, and it’s quite complex. So, what is regenerative braking? Regenerative braking operates on the principle of electromagnetic induction, leveraging the electric motor’s dual functionality as both a motor and a generator. When the driver applies the brakes, the electric motor switches from propulsion mode to generator mode, acting as a generator to produce electrical energy.
As the wheels slow down, the electric motor generates torque in the opposite direction, effectively slowing down the vehicle while simultaneously converting kinetic energy into electrical energy. This electrical energy is then fed back into the vehicle’s battery, where it can be stored and used to power the vehicle’s electric motor during acceleration or to operate other electrical components.
1. Enhanced Efficiency: By recovering energy that would otherwise be lost as heat during braking, regenerative braking significantly improves the overall efficiency of electric vehicles, extending their range and reducing energy consumption.
2. Extended Range: The energy captured through regenerative braking helps replenish the vehicle’s battery, increasing its effective range and reducing the need for frequent recharging.
3. Reduced Brake Wear: Since regenerative braking relies less on traditional friction-based braking systems, it reduces wear and tear on brake pads and rotors, resulting in longer brake life and reduced maintenance costs.
4. Smoother Driving Experience: Regenerative braking provides smoother deceleration compared to conventional braking systems, resulting in a more comfortable and controlled driving experience for passengers while you’re on the road.
Regenerative braking not only enhances the performance of electric vehicles but also plays a significant role in revolutionizing the entire landscape of sustainable transportation. By capturing and converting kinetic energy into electrical energy during braking, regenerative braking contributes to the efficiency, range, and overall driving dynamics of electric vehicles.
Moreover, regenerative braking helps to minimize environmental impact by reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions associated with traditional combustion engine vehicles. As the automotive industry continues to prioritize sustainability and emissions reduction, regenerative braking is expected to play an increasingly vital role in achieving these goals. As EV technology evolves and advances, regenerative braking systems are expected to become even more refined and widespread, so knowing what is regenerative braking can help you make further informed decisions.
Regenerative braking represents a groundbreaking innovation in the world of electric vehicles, offering numerous benefits in terms of efficiency, range, and performance. By converting kinetic energy into electrical energy during braking, regenerative braking helps maximize the energy efficiency of EVs while reducing brake wear and enhancing the driving experience. If you’re ready to switch to an EV, then don’t hesitate to apply for financing online. Our finance department is here to help make the switch to any EV, such as the Nissan LEAF or the Chevy Bolt EV, easy and affordable.
A critical aspect that every EV owner should be aware of is electric vehicle tire differences. Electric vehicles are transforming the automotive landscape with their innovative technology and eco-friendly benefits. However, this shift brings new considerations for maintenance and care, particularly when it comes to tires. Understanding the tire wear differences in electric vehicles compared to their gasoline-powered counterparts is essential for optimal vehicle performance and longevity.
● Weight and Distribution: Electric vehicles are generally heavier than traditional vehicles due to their battery packs. This increased weight can lead to faster tire wear if not properly managed.
● Instant Torque: The instant torque characteristic of electric motors can put additional stress on tires, leading to distinctive wear patterns.
● Low Rolling Resistance Tires: Many EVs are equipped with low rolling resistance tires to maximize range. While beneficial for efficiency, these tires can wear differently compared to standard tires.
● Increased Wear on Rear Tires for RWD Models: Rear-wheel-drive (RWD) EVs may experience more pronounced wear on the rear tires due to the distribution of power and torque.
● Uneven Wear Patterns: The instant torque and regenerative braking systems in EVs can lead to uneven wear patterns if tires are not regularly rotated.
● Faster Wear in High-Performance EVs: High-performance electric vehicles, which leverage the full potential of electric torque, may see accelerated tire wear due to the increased demands placed on the tires.
● Regular tire rotations ensure even wear across all four tires, extending their lifespan.
● Maintaining the correct tire pressure is key to minimizing wear. This not only aids in tire longevity but also in preserving the range and efficiency of your EV.
● Understanding the electric vehicle tire differences is vital when selecting new tires. Opt for those specifically designed for EVs to handle the unique demands of electric driving.
Whether you’re a seasoned EV owner or considering making the switch, understanding the tire wear differences in electric vehicles is crucial for ensuring your vehicle remains in top condition.
And if you currently drive an EV that needs a new set of tires, #1 Cochran is the place to go. With our Low Price Tire Guarantee, we’ll meet or beat any price on all tire brands. Schedule an appointment today.
If you’re ever in a car accident, the first thing you do is make sure everyone is okay. Second, you worry about the car repairs for your ride. Ask yourself, “Is it safe to get near my vehicle or drive my vehicle?” “How long will repairs take, and what will happen to my vehicle?”
For EV owners, the concerns might be slightly different. Read what happens after your EV is in an accident with our guide from the #1 Cochran EV Specialists. We’ll also discuss what happens to electric car batteries in a crash. But first, we’ll answer, “What happens if an electric car gets in an accident?”
First, like any other accident, emergency crews will be called to the scene if the accident is severe enough. Minor fender-benders, not so much. Yet in an accident where a vehicle might be undrivable, police and possibly fire trucks will be called to the scene.
If an EV catches fire, there is a hazard because flames from lithium-ion batteries are hard to extinguish. First responders will make sure everyone is safe and minimize the risks to people nearby. Once the wreck is cleared, call your auto insurance provider for the next steps.
What happens after your EV is in an accident depends on the severity of the wreck. If there is minor cosmetic damage, a collision repair specialist could probably fix that. Body by Cochran, the collision repair division of #1 Cochran, has the expert team to get your EV back on the road.
Damage to the motor(s) or the EV battery pack is an entirely different matter. According to Reuters, insurance companies may have to total out an EV if the sealed battery pack gets scratched from a wreck. That’s because the liquid lithium-ion batteries might be compromised, which could cause a fire.
Ford and General Motors have stated that battery packs on their EVs are easier to repair when compared to other automakers, so consider purchasing a Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC or Ford EV if this is a concern.
When gauging what happens to electric car batteries in a crash, it’s important to note what components, if any, got damaged. Electric motors and EV car batteries are expensive to replace. Check with your insurance provider to determine if your vehicle is covered completely if it gets into an accident.
With multiple service center locations, we have the certified technicians and experience to restore your EV to its original condition. Or, if you break down, we offer EV roadside assistance with available towing and on-the-spot charging, if needed.
If you have more questions about what happens after your EV is in an accident, contact us or call 877-COCHRAN. Our EV Specialists are happy to help in any way we can.
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