How to handle a drained EV battery and avoid future incidents
Finding yourself with a drained EV battery can be a stressful moment, especially if you’re far from home. But don’t worry, there are several steps you can take to get back on the road. Whether you’re a seasoned electric vehicle owner or new to the EV scene, knowing what to do in this scenario is crucial.
Preparation is key to avoiding future incidents. By adopting preventive strategies, you can significantly reduce the risk of encountering an empty battery. Whether it’s familiarising yourself with mobile charging solutions or using apps to locate charging stations, being proactive is essential. You’ll find that a little foresight goes a long way in ensuring you stay on the road with minimal interruptions.
Understanding EV battery drain
Electric vehicle batteries drain based on the energy consumption of the car, just like how fuel runs out in conventional vehicles. Factors such as driving habits, environmental conditions, and battery health play significant roles in determining how quickly your EV battery might drain.
To have more insights into why a battery drains we need to have a good grip on concepts regarding EV batteries check out this video guide by Auto Drive where you will learn some core concepts regarding EV batteries which will help understand the drainage issue in the longer run.
Factors contributing to battery drain
Aggressive Driving: Frequently accelerating and driving at high speeds significantly increase energy consumption, resulting in a quicker battery drain. Maintaining consistent speeds and accelerating gradually can help conserve battery power.
Use of Climate Control: Using the air conditioning or heating in an EV requires substantial power. Prolonged use of climate control systems can quickly reduce the vehicle’s range, especially during extreme temperatures.
High Load: Utilising electronic accessories like heated seats, infotainment, and additional lighting places extra load on the battery, accelerating its depletion and reducing overall range.
What to do if your EV battery drains completely
If you find yourself in a situation where your EV battery has drained completely, follow these steps to get your vehicle back on the road:
Step 1: Stay calm and assess the situation
If your EV battery drains completely, it’s crucial to remain calm and assess your surroundings. Ensure you are in a safe location. If possible, move your car to the roadside to avoid obstructing traffic. This initial assessment helps you determine the next course of action, whether calling for assistance or arranging for an emergency charge.
Step 2: Contact roadside assistance
Most EV manufacturers offer roadside assistance services for cases like a drained battery. Contact your support line or use your car’s connected app to request assistance. They can either tow your vehicle to the nearest charging station or, in some cases, bring a mobile charging unit to give your car enough power to reach a charging station.
Step 3: Use an emergency mobile charging solution
Many roadside assistance providers carry mobile EV chargers to give you enough charge to drive to the nearest charging point. Additionally, if you have access to a portable Level 2 charger, you can use it to provide enough energy for a few kilometres, getting you closer to a full charging station safely.
Options for emergency charging
In the event of a completely drained EV battery, it’s essential to have some emergency charging options available. Below is a list of the most common solutions:
| Charging Solution | Details | Speed of Charging |
|---|---|---|
| Mobile Charging Unit | A portable charging station is brought to you by roadside assistance. | Adds about 10-20 km in 30 minutes |
| Portable Level 2 Charger | Requires a power source to provide a moderate charge. | Adds about 25 km in an hour |
| Tow to Charging Station | Tow the vehicle to the nearest station for a full charge. | Depends on tow time and charging station speed |
Emergency charging tips:
- Ensure your EV roadside assistance includes a mobile charging option.
- Keep a portable Level 2 charger in your vehicle if feasible.
- Always be aware of the nearest charging stations.
Step 4: Tow your vehicle
If no mobile charging solution is available, you may need to tow your EV to the nearest charging facility. Ensure the towing service you contact is equipped to handle electric vehicles, as improper towing can cause significant damage to the EV powertrain and potentially void your warranty. It’s always best to use a company familiar with handling electric vehicles.
Immediate actions to take
When your EV car unexpectedly runs out of battery, it might seem like you’re in a tight spot. However, by taking the right steps, you can mitigate the situation effectively. Here’s what you need to know.
Find the nearest charging station
As soon as you notice your battery’s power dwindling closer to zero, it’s crucial to locate the nearest charging station. Modern electric vehicles (EVs), including yours, are equipped with systems that help you pinpoint the closest charging points with ease. Utilize the in-built navigation system or EV-specific apps on your smartphone like ZapMap, Pod Point, or Charge Your Car. These tools are your best bet for finding a charging station swiftly and avoiding the hassle of a completely drained battery.
Call for assistance
If reaching a charging station seems out of the question, it’s time to call for assistance. Remember, the goal here is to get your EV back on the road as smoothly as possible. Roadside assistance, especially services tailored for electric vehicles, can support you. Whether it’s Tesla Roadside Assistance or a similar service from another manufacturer, these teams are prepared to offer solutions.
Always ensure the towing method is appropriate for EVs, typically requiring a flatbed tow truck to prevent damage to your vehicle’s electrical systems.
Following these immediate actions not only helps in swiftly addressing the issue of a drained EV battery but also ensures you’re back on the road with minimal delay. Remember, preparation and knowing what to do when your EV car runs out of battery are key to turning a possibly stressful situation into a manageable one.
Tools and gadgets for monitoring battery health
1. Battery health monitoring apps
Most electric vehicles come with a dedicated app that provides real-time updates on battery health, charging status, and range. Examples include the Tesla App, NissanConnect, and My BMW App, which enable users to efficiently monitor their EV’s battery from anywhere. These apps help prevent unexpected battery drain by alerting users of low charge and upcoming maintenance requirements.
2. Smart charging stations
Smart chargers, like the JuiceBox Smart EV Charger, are advanced charging units that allow you to monitor charging progress from a smartphone app. These chargers also let users set charging schedules during off-peak times, minimizing energy costs. Remote monitoring helps ensure the battery is charged effectively without overcharging, enhancing the overall efficiency and health of the EV battery.
3. Portable battery backup units
Portable units like the EcoFlow Delta Pro can serve as emergency power supplies for electric vehicles. These backup units can provide enough energy to charge an EV during emergencies, making them an ideal solution for drivers frequently travelling long distances. They offer peace of mind by ensuring that unexpected battery drains do not leave you stranded, especially when away from charging infrastructure.
Comparing charging methods
Understanding the different charging methods can help you better plan your trips and prevent battery drainage.
| Charging Method | Charging Speed | Use Case | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 Charger | 3-8 km per hour | Home charging for overnight use | Available at home |
| Level 2 Charger | 25-50 km per hour | Home or public charging stations | Available in many public places |
| DC Fast Charger | 150-250 km in 30 minutes | Long trips and emergency charging | Common along highways |
Tips for extending battery life
Here are some tips you can consider for extending the battery life
- Maintain Moderate Charge Levels: Keeping your EV battery between 20% and 80% ensures optimal health and reduces stress on the battery. Charging to 100% should be done only for long trips where you need the extra range.
- Minimise Exposure to Extreme Temperatures: Extreme temperatures can negatively impact battery life. Park in shaded areas or use temperature-controlled garages whenever possible to avoid overheating or overcooling the battery, preserving its lifespan.
- Use Regenerative Braking: Using regenerative braking recovers energy when slowing down and feeds it back into the battery, improving overall efficiency and slightly extending your driving range while preserving battery health.
- Reduce Speed: High-speed driving consumes more power and can quickly drain your battery. Maintaining moderate speeds helps conserve energy, extending the battery’s life and enhancing your vehicle’s range efficiency.
- Scheduled Charging: Charging during off-peak hours helps prevent the battery from overheating, particularly during hot weather, and reduces electricity costs. Setting scheduled charging also helps manage battery temperature for better long-term health.
Preventive strategies
Employing preventive strategies ensures your EV battery stays charged and your journeys remain uninterrupted. Understanding effective battery management and planning for long trips enhances your overall electric driving experience.
Effective battery management
Maintain your EV’s optimal performance and battery life with regular management. Schedule dedicated times for routine maintenance checks to monitor battery health, as performance may deteriorate over time. During each check, look for indicators of battery wear or damage, ensuring you address these promptly.
Rely on regenerative braking whenever possible. This feature boosts energy efficiency by converting kinetic energy back into stored energy, extending the battery range. Ensure your power management settings are adjusted to your driving habits, as this can maximise battery efficiency and conserve energy. Heed dashboard alerts, as they indicate when battery charge levels get low, and proactively seek charging opportunities.
Planning for long journeys
Your long journeys require careful planning to avoid a drained EV battery. Start by mapping your route with accessible charging stations clearly marked. Apps like ZapMap provide updated charging point information, helping you plan stops.
Consider the potential impact of weather and traffic on your energy consumption. Cold temperatures or traffic jams can increase energy demands, so plan for possible detours and delays. Knowledge of charging station types and compatibility with your EV is essential to avoid surprises. Pack an emergency charging kit, as some can offer limited power boosts when traditional stations aren’t available. Use advanced planning to ensure a stress-free electric drive.
Frequently asked questions
If your EV battery drains completely, move the vehicle to a safe spot, contact roadside assistance, or use a mobile charging solution to get enough power to reach the nearest charging station. Yes, you can use a mobile charging unit provided by roadside assistance, a portable Level 2 charger, or tow the vehicle to the nearest charging station for a full recharge. Plan your charging stops in advance, avoid letting the battery drop below 20%, and use battery health monitoring apps to track the status of your battery. Driving conservatively also helps extend the range. You can use battery health monitoring apps provided by your vehicle manufacturer, smart charging stations that allow remote tracking, and portable battery backup units for emergencies. Yes, aggressive driving such as rapid acceleration and hard braking drains the battery faster. Driving at moderate speeds and using regenerative braking can extend battery life and increase the vehicle’s range. Consider the charging speed and your requirements. Level 1 chargers are for home use, Level 2 chargers provide moderate charging, and DC fast chargers are ideal for rapid charging during long trips. Yes, extreme heat or cold can negatively impact battery efficiency. Try to park in shaded areas during summer and in sheltered locations during winter to maintain optimal battery health. Occasional use of DC fast charging is safe; however, frequent use can slightly reduce battery lifespan. It is best to rely on Level 2 charging for regular use to maintain battery health.What should I do if my EV battery drains completely?
Are there emergency charging options for EVs?
How can I prevent my EV battery from draining?
What tools can I use to monitor my EV battery health?
Does driving style affect my EV battery life?
What should I consider when choosing a charging method?
Are extreme temperatures harmful to EV batteries?
Is it safe to use fast charging frequently?
