Learn how to care for electric vehicles batteries!
The battery of an electric vehicle represents up to 30% of the total value of the vehicle. As EVs continue to gain traction in the automotive market, used car dealers are increasingly encountering these innovative cars in their inventories. One of the most critical aspects of maintaining EVs is proper battery care. The battery is the heart of an electric vehicle, and its longevity and performance can significantly impact the overall value of the car.
Understanding EV batteries and their functioning
An electric vehicle runs on a battery that stores and supplies energy to power the vehicle. There are two main types of battery used in EVs: LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) and NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt). The LFP battery has excellent life cycle and thermal stability while having a lower cost. The NMC battery has a better range and performance. A third type of battery is currently in development which is solid-state. These batteries have the potential to combine thermal stability with higher energy density for a longer life cycle. For the moment, these solid-state batteries have a high cost with limited availability.
Regarding hybrid vehicles, manufacturers mainly use lithium-ion batteries as opposed to nickel-metal which were used in the first generations of HEVs. Like for BEVs, this allows for a better range.
Other technologies exist around EV batteries such as vehicle-to-grid (V2G) which enable you to use your vehicle to charge during periods of excess supply and discharge back to the grid when supply is lower. It allows you to use them as a generator to power your house appliances, for example in case of power outage. You can also find vehicle-to-load (V2L) systems, which allow you to use your vehicle as a direct charger without going through the grid.
The longevity of these batteries is heavily dependent on their maintenance and usage.
A new way to drive
Aggressive driving, with frequent rapid acceleration and heavy braking, can strain the battery and reduce its autonomy. A smooth and steady driving style will minimize the stress on the battery and therefore increase its longevity.
Electric vehicles are equipped with regenerative brakes. They work by collecting the kinetic energy produced when breaking and transforming it back into electrical energy. Learning how to properly use this technology will help you gain some autonomy.
There are also some things you should avoid like extreme temperatures or extreme states of charge. Lithium batteries are sensitive to heat and cold. By parking your car in a garage or protected area, you’ll limit the impact of natural environment on your battery. By keeping your battery between 20% and 80%, you will protect its component. In the meantime, use fast charge sparingly. While being convenient, fast charge takes a bigger tole on your battery than regular charging.
Battery replacements are significant expenses. By understanding how your battery works and how to preserve its efficiency, you will provide longer life expectancy. Like a combustion vehicle, electric vehicles benefit from regular maintenance check-ups where the battery condition is assessed.
Specific considerations for used electric vehicles
When buying a used electric vehicle, it is important to consider how to keep it in good condition and maintain its value.
Many EV batteries come with warranties that can extend up to 8 years or 160,000kms. Familiarize yourself with the specifics of the warranty for each vehicle in your inventory and communicate this information to buyers.
In addition, on MotorTrade, we provide State of Health certificates, when possible, to attest the existing capacity of a battery thanks to our partnership with AVILOO Battery Diagnostics and MOBA.
Furthermore, a study done by Arval using those SoH certificates shows that the batteries’ longevities are generally much higher than expected. This means that you can reassure your customers about the range of each vehicle. You can also highlight the lower operating and maintenance costs of EVs compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. Proper battery care and documentation can significantly enhance the resale value.
Educate customers
A used car dealer can be very helpful to customers by teaching them how to take care of their EV batteries. When selling an EV, take the time to explain charging practices.
Provide a detailed explanation of optimal charging practices and the importance of avoiding extreme states of charge.
Demonstrate features, by showing customers how to use any battery care features, such as scheduled charging, preconditioning, and thermal management systems.
Offer resources such as manuals or links to manufacturer guidelines on battery care.
Discover our page dedicated to electrified vehicles where you’ll find useful information about EVs and how we can support you integrating those vehicles into your offer.
Conclusion
As a used car dealer, knowledge about electric vehicles batteries will help you establish more trust with your clients looking to purchase EVs. By understanding the basics of battery health, implementing optimal charging practices, ensuring regular maintenance, and educating customers, you can play a pivotal role in the successful adoption of electric vehicles.
As the automotive industry continues to evolve, staying informed about the latest advancements in EV technology and battery care will help you not only maintain your inventory but also build trust and loyalty with a growing customer base. Embrace these practices, and you’ll be well on your way to becoming a trusted expert in the field of electric vehicles.
Start purchasing electric vehicles today with Arval Trading’s special EVs lists.
