How to keep your EV battery in good shape
Electric vehicles are user-friendly in many ways – they require virtually no special maintenance. Unlike combustion engines, their batteries and electric motors don’t need oil changes, spark plug replacements, or similar servicing. Owners also don’t have to worry about cold starts in winter. However, smart and considerate usage can make living with an EV even easier and help extend the battery’s life. Two videos from Škoda Auto explain the key principles.
The battery is the key component in terms of a service life of an electric vehicle. It performs best when used without major extremes. In practice, that means regular use while avoiding long periods at very low or full charge levels. Ideally, you should keep the battery between 20% and 80% of its capacity. The Battery Care function available in Škoda vehicles helps drivers monitor and maintain optimal charge levels. It can be activated, deactivated, or temporarily overridden as needed.
In the long run, slower AC charging is generally gentler on the battery. However, during long journeys, there’s no need to worry about using fast DC chargers. When used appropriately, DC charging can speed up travel and provide convenience with minimal impact on battery health. Fast charging is most efficient at low charge levels, so it’s perfectly fine to arrive at the charger with only 10% remaining. On the other hand, charging beyond 80% on a fast charger brings little benefit, as the process slows down significantly. On long trips, it’s more efficient to make several shorter charging stops instead.
Battery care and efficient charging guidelines
- Avoid leaving the battery nearly empty or fully charged for long periods. The optimal range is between 20% and 80% capacity.
- Use the Battery Care function to monitor and maintain suitable charge levels.
- Whenever possible, use slower AC charging, which is gentler on the battery.
- Don't worry about DC charging but be aware that it is fastest up to about 80% capacity.
- Before a long trip, it’s fine to charge the battery to 100%.
- Let the car’s built-in navigation plan charging stops. If you don’t use it, activate the battery preheating function manually before arriving at the charger, especially in cold weather.
- Plan your charging stops before you set off conveniently from the comfort of your home using the MyŠkoda app.
Charging is also faster and more efficient when the battery is at its optimal temperature. There are two ways to achieve this: ideally, use the vehicle’s built-in navigation system, which automatically plans charging stops and preheats the battery before arrival. Alternatively, drivers can activate the preheating manually via the car’s infotainment system.
Škoda’s digital services also make charging easier. With the MyŠkoda app, you can plan your route and charging stops from the comfort of your home and send it directly to your vehicle. On the road, the Powerpass service allows convenient access to over 900,000 charging stations across Europe, including the ultra-fast Ionity network. Selected stations even support Plug & Charge, eliminating the need for card-based authentication at the charger.
