Are you thinking about purchasing an electric car or a Tesla? If so, you’re likely excited about the prospect of being able to opt out of buying gasoline and knowing that you’re reducing your environmental footprint. Yet, you may have lots of questions about using and maintaining electric car batteries.
Fortunately, the learning curve for being an electric car owner is relatively mild. In this Ace Tech Collision Center article, we’ll explore how long the batteries will last and what you can do to get the most out of each charge.
What Are Electric Car Batteries Made of, Anyway?
The battery in an electric vehicle (EV) is primarily made using lithium-ion chemistry. In one of these batteries, you’ll find components such as cobalt, nickel, graphite and lithium. The reason why EV manufacturers prefer this type of battery is that they have higher energy density and longer life spans.
Traditional gasoline-powered vehicles often use lead batteries. These may last for only a couple of years, while lithium-ion styles won’t need replacing for much longer. Exploring what goes into making an EV battery gives you more insight into the high-tech that sends energy to your vehicle.
Electrodes
The battery has electrodes that serve as connections that facilitate the flow of an electrical charge. The positive electrode is called the cathode, and it is responsible for releasing lithium ions during discharge. This is when the battery is actively powering the car. Usually, this is made of metal oxide materials.
The negative electrode is called the anode. This electron is usually made of carbon or graphite, and it absorbs lithium ions during their discharge and releases them during the charging process.
Electrolyte
This is a chemical solution that is typically in liquid form. It facilitates the movement of the lithium ions between the cathode and anode.
In most EV batteries, the solution is made of a mixture containing lithium salt and organic solvents such as ethylene carbonate.
Various Additional Components
Ev batteries also contain additional components that support the core features. Separators and current collectors are found in EV batteries.
As an EV owner, you’ll also find it fascinating to discover that the batteries contain a battery management system that helps to regulate and monitor their performance.
This system is how you know when an EV battery needs charging. Most EVs use dashboard warning lights such as ones signaling that your vehicle is in turtle mode to let you know when it’s time to replace the battery.
Are Electric Car Batteries Recyclable?
Many of the materials in EV batteries require mining, which makes it even more important to preserve their life spans as long as possible. Fortunately, many of the components are recyclable, which can ease your mind about your environmental footprint.
While most electric car batteries are sent to recycling centers that preserve precious materials such as lithium, cobalt and nickel, others may receive a second life. For instance, old EV batteries that have reached the end of their lifespan can also serve a purpose in home energy storage systems or as support for electrical grids.
How Long Do Electric Car Batteries Last?
The majority of EV manufacturers provide warranties on batteries that cover eight years or 100,000 miles. Some go even further with warranties that extend to 10 years or 150,000 miles. Knowing that you have years of battery coverage can give you the reassurance you might need to take the jump into owning an EV.
Keep in mind, however, that the life span of electric car batteries is influenced by many factors. Storing the EV at the right temperature helps to maintain its life span. You’ll also want to follow the proper charging instructions that are provided by your EV’s manufacturer.
Purchasing an EV comes with a brief learning curve that is worth experiencing to enjoy benefits such as being able to avoid visiting the gas pumps in your neighborhood. Learning how to take care of your electric vehicle’s batteries helps you avoid potential issues such as needing to replace them too soon.
As you get to know your new EV, make sure to also check in with your local repair or certified collision repair shop. Knowing who to take your EV to for essential repairs gives you peace of mind that your new car battery is always in safe and optimal condition.
