Different electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers address battery degradation in extreme weather conditions using various strategies, focusing on charging habits, temperature management, and technological innovations. Here’s how some manufacturers and the industry as a whole tackle this issue:
Charging Habits and Management
- State of Charge (SOC) Management: Most manufacturers recommend keeping the battery charge between 20% and 80% to reduce stress on the battery. This practice helps minimize the chemical reactions that contribute to degradation.
- Smart Charging: Vehicles can be programmed to charge during cooler parts of the day or when the vehicle is in a garage, which can help regulate temperature. Some systems will delay charging if the vehicle is exposed to extreme temperatures.
Temperature Management
- Cooling Systems: Many EVs are equipped with cooling systems to regulate battery temperature. For example, Tesla’s vehicles use a combination of air and liquid cooling to manage battery temperature.
- Parking Strategies: Owners are advised to park in shaded areas during hot weather and use insulation to protect the vehicle from cold temperatures when possible.
Technological Innovations
- Advanced Battery Management Systems (BMS): Companies like Exro are developing innovative BMS solutions that include micro-protection mechanisms for temperature, voltage, and current. These systems help mitigate degradation by closely monitoring and balancing cell performance.
- Battery Warranties: Most manufacturers offer extensive warranties covering battery health, typically replacing or restoring batteries if their state of health (SoH) falls below a certain threshold, such as 70% capacity.
Real-World Practices
- Level 2 Charging: Many manufacturers recommend Level 2 charging over DC fast charging to minimize heat stress on batteries. While DC fast charging is convenient, it can accelerate degradation, especially in hot climates.
- Vehicle Design and Materials: Developing vehicles with thermal insulation and using materials that help regulate temperature can also contribute to minimizing battery degradation in extreme weather conditions.
By focusing on these strategies, manufacturers aim to enhance battery longevity and performance in diverse environmental conditions.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/how-do-different-ev-manufacturers-address-battery-degradation-in-extreme-weather/
