One question we frequently receive at E-Flux by Road is: "How can I charge my car without damaging the battery?" We've all had that experience with a smartphone battery that depletes quickly, and of course, we don't want the same fate for our expensive electric vehicle (EV) battery. The good news is, if you're kind to your battery, it will be kind to you, and it will keep you going for a long time! So, how can you prolong your battery’s life?

When we talk about the relationship between battery capacity and charge point capacity, it's expressed in terms of "C." For example, when you charge an EV with a 60kW battery using a fast charger with a 60kW capacity, the ratio is 1C. If the charger has a 120kW capacity, the ratio is 2C, and for a 30kW charger, it's 0.5C.

To preserve the longevity and health of your battery, it is recommended to use chargers with a 0.5C to 0.85C ratio compared to your EV’s battery capacity. Avoid chargers with a capacity of 1C or higher as much as possible.

For instance, if your EV battery has a capacity of 22kW, charging with a 22kW charger results in a 1C ratio, and it’s advisable to steer clear of chargers with higher capacities.

Charging session duration also plays a crucial role in preserving battery health. Small, frequent charging sessions are better for your battery than going from empty to full in one long charge. This is due to the chemical composition of the battery. When the battery is charged for an extended period, it heats up, and this heat negatively impacts the chemical structure of the battery.

To maintain a healthy battery, try to charge in smaller increments daily. Opt for a charger with a capacity ratio between 0.5C and 0.85C compared to your EV’s battery. Monitor the temperature of your battery and ensure it doesn’t overheat. Your battery will thank you for it!