Here, find out everything you need to know about electric car batteries - from how they work to how to look after them. All so you can get the most out of your EV.
Instead of an engine, electric cars contain a battery pack, inside which are rows of lithium-ion cells. They also contain some other metals and elements including: Iron, Aluminium, Copper, Cobalt and Manganese
They’re a popular choice for electric cars due to their energy density and cost-efficiency. They are also safer than other options, making them more reliable.
The battery stores energy that will send electricity to the electric motor/s that powers the wheels. Once the battery level has depleted, it will need recharging much like the battery in a smartphone.
Some batteries are able to charge on the go through regenerative braking. This is where energy normally lost when slowing down is captured and sent back to the battery to charge it. These batteries are normally found in self-charging hybrids – a type of hybrid car.
Others, however, will need to be plugged into a power source. Electric car batteries can be charged at home using a domestic three-pin plug or wallbox, or on the go at a public charging station. Learn more about the different ways to charge your EV on our charging page.
For many EV owners, how long the battery lasts is a key concern. With their advanced technology, electric car batteries are expected to last as long as 10-15 years (or 100,000+ miles). That’s around the same as a normal petrol or diesel car!
To help maintain your battery’s lifespan, there are a few do’s and don’ts:
For more detail on these, check out our blog on extending your electric car’s battery life.
The range provided depends on the size or capacity of the battery. Today, most electric cars offer an average range of 300 miles or more. As technology improves and charging networks expand, however, ranges of 400 miles and above are becoming common.
When choosing an electric car, consider the types of journeys you’ll cover. This helps you decide whether one is right for you. Shorter commutes, for instance, are ideal for electric cars, or frequent visits to town centres where Low Emission Zones (LEZs) are in force.
Want to know more about electric cars? Explore our Electric Car Hub and find all the information you need – from charging and maintenance to incentives and more.
The lithium-ion cells inside electric car batteries are indeed recyclable. Techniques such as solvent extraction mean up to 95% of the raw materials in electric car batteries can be recycled. This, along with zero emissions, gives electric cars an exceptionally low carbon footprint.
There are lots of companies worldwide that specialise in electric battery production. Some of these include:
Other than driving itself, the main thing that can drain your battery is using the climate control. This is because heating or cooling the cabin uses energy from your battery which reduces your range.
Other things that rely on your electrical system include:
Prices for replacing an electric car battery vary. Since they use more advanced technology than a petrol or diesel engine, replacements can be costly. Thankfully, as long as your battery is undamaged and properly maintained, you should not need a replacement.
