Tesla Model 3 Traveled 203,000 Miles with Minimal Battery Degradation, Debunking the Necessity of the '80% Rule' for Chevrolet Equinox EV Batteries
Experienced EV owners and experts agree on several best practices to maximize the lifespan of an electric vehicle (EV) battery. These practices focus primarily on maintaining optimal charging ranges and temperature conditions.
- Maintain a balanced battery charge during normal use. Avoid charging to 100% or letting it drop below 20%, as both extremes stress lithium-ion cells and accelerate degradation over time [1][2][3]. Some suggest an even narrower range, such as between 30% and 60%, for the absolute best battery longevity, though this is less practical for daily driving [4].
- Avoid deep discharges and prolonged full charges. Frequently allowing the battery to reach near empty or staying at full charge for extended periods causes chemical stress within the battery, reducing its ability to hold a charge [1][4].
- Limit the use of DC fast charging to when necessary. While convenient, DC fast chargers generate more heat and can increase battery wear compared to slower Level 2 AC charging, which is gentler on the battery [1].
- Manage temperature exposure. Park in climate-controlled environments or garages when possible. Extreme temperatures (below freezing or above 90°F / 32°C) can harm battery health. If the vehicle supports it, keep it plugged in during extreme weather to maintain battery temperature and charge stability [3].
- During long-term storage, keep the battery partially charged and periodically check it. Avoid leaving the battery fully discharged or fully charged during storage. Use a battery maintainer or keep the EV plugged in at moderate charge levels [3].
- Utilize vehicle features designed to optimize charging. Many EVs have settings to limit maximum charge levels (e.g., charging stop at 80%) which help in maintaining battery health over the years [3].
- Consult and follow manufacturer-specific guidelines. Battery management systems (BMS) and warranties vary between manufacturers, so aligning care with official recommendations is important for ensuring warranty coverage and optimal battery health [1][2].
Rick Malek, a four-time EV owner, is currently the pilot of a Chevrolet Equinox EV. The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV is powered by GM's Ultium battery, supports 150 kW DC fast-charging, and has a starting price under $35,000 [5]. The EPA-estimated range for the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV FWD is about 326 miles, with AWD trims getting roughly 307 miles [6].
Rick Malek suggests charging an EV's battery to match the daily driving distance and not fearing the 85% state of charge [7]. Kevin Wall, another longtime EV veteran, drives less than 10 miles a day and keeps his EVs at the 50% battery level [8].
Most EV battery failures occur early, within the first 50,000 miles, usually due to manufacturing defects or bad cells [9]. However, real-world studies show most EVs retain 80-90% capacity after 8-10 years [10]. Smart EV ownership involves managing heat, state of charge, and charging rate to maximize the lifespan of the battery.
Malek also warns against charging an EV's battery too fast at home, as it may lead to the battery sitting at a higher state of charge for longer [11]. He advises against parking an EV's battery at high states of charge for extended periods [12]. Malek advocates for the ABC rule: Always Be Charging [13]. Joseph Cool advises that most people should keep their EV's state of charge between 80-20 or 70-30 for optimal battery health [14].
Sources:
- Electrek
- Consumer Reports
- Electric Vehicle Web
- Plug In America
- Chevrolet
- EPA
- Kelly Blue Book
- Electrek
- Electric Vehicle Web
- Green Car Reports
- Electric Vehicle Web
- Electric Vehicle Web
- Electrek
- Consumer Reports
- Integrate technology into managing the EV battery lifespan by using vehicle features designed to optimize charging, such as limiting maximum charge levels.
- Adopt a balanced lifestyle by electing to drive an electric-vehicle** (EV) and considering charging practices that prioritize temperature control, charging range, and charging rate to ensure optimal EV battery longevity.
