Are EV range figures based on 100% battery?
Filed under:
electric cars
The question
Hi,
All the articles I read say that electric car batteries should only be charged to 80/85 per cent. Are the published range figures based on 100 per cent or 80 per cent charging?
Thanks, Philip
PS: For me, electric cars will only become realistic when they have a real world range of 600km.
Asked by Philip Donegan ·
Expert answer
Hi Philip,
Well, Tesla already sells a Model S long range that will go for a claimed 610km...
Yes, the maximum range figures are quoted at 100 per cent charge, but the 80-85 per cent charge only really matters when you’re fast-charging. Using high-speed charge for the final 15-20 per cent can, in theory, affect the battery chemistry and cause faster degradation. To get to 100 per cent charge, you’re better slow-charging from a domestic source (preferably a 7.4kW wallbox) overnight. The slower the charge, the better it is for overall battery health and longevity.
Answered by Neil Briscoe