
Electric vehicles are the future and their demand is rapidly growing every day. Because they are eco-friendly, budget-friendly, and user-friendly. That is the reason that the European electric vehicle market grew rapidly by 17 percent between 2022 and 2023.
Additionally, Chinese battery electric vehicle (BEV) and hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) registrations increased by 36 percent year-on-year in 2023. Global plug-in electric vehicle (PEV) sales reached around 14 million units in 2023 and are expected to grow further.
EV Vehicles require less maintenance than traditional vehicles. But, that doesn’t mean that don't need your attention at all. In this blog, you will learn top tips on maintenance for EV fleets that will save you time and hard-earned money.
5 Best Money-Saving Maintenance Tips for EV Fleets
EVs have fewer moving parts and fewer fluids. That means you don’t need to worry about routine maintenance like engine oil changes, cooling system flushes, transmission servicing, and replacements for air filters, or spark plugs every month.
Unlike gas cars, electric car owners don't worry about brakes, suspensions, and other components like drum brake wheel cylinder prices. Because EVs don't have them and they don't need to maintain them either. Learn about the brake systems used in electric vehicles.
Statista reported that according to their survey in January 2024, around 80% of electric vehicle owners in France said that costs for electric vehicle maintenance are low. This means you can increase your EV’s lifespan by paying a little attention.
Maintenance of EVs is not only cheaper but easier than a hybrid or engine vehicle. Given below are some expert's recommended maintenance tips for EV fleets:
Tip 1: Battery Health Checks
Electric batteries are the lifelines of an EV and monitoring battery health is extremely important for maximizing their performance and lifespan.
EV batteries naturally degrade over time, which can affect range and efficiency. Your fleet operator should utilize onboard diagnostics or mobile apps to regularly check the battery's state of charge (SoC) and its overall health.
Keeping the battery charged between 20% and 80% helps prevent excessive wear and prolongs its life. Additionally, identifying any issues early can significantly reduce the potential costly repairs down the line.
Tip 2: Smart Charging Over Fast Charging
While fast charging is convenient, frequent use can lead to increased battery degradation due to heat generation. You should prioritize regular charging using Level 2 chargers whenever possible, reserving fast chargers for urgent situations only. This practice not only improves battery longevity but also reduces electricity costs by utilizing lower rates associated with slower charging methods.
Moreover, implementing smart charging schedules can optimize energy consumption during off-peak hours.
Tip 3: Tire Care
EV vehicles tend to be heavier than traditional vehicles due to their large batteries, which can lead to faster tire wear. The average life expectancy of an EV’s tire is 20,000 to 40,000 miles. Regular tire rotations and proper inflation are essential for maintaining their optimal performance and safety.
Find out how to replace drum brakes with our simple 7-step guide.
In this regard, you should establish a routine maintenance schedule that includes tire checks every few thousand miles. This proactive approach not only extends tire life but also improves energy efficiency, as well-maintained tires reduce rolling resistance.
Tip 4: Regenerative Braking
One of the significant advantages of EVs is regenerative braking, which recovers energy during braking and reduces wear on traditional brake components. Learn how much does brake replacement cost
However, you should regularly inspect the braking system to ensure it functions effectively. By monitoring brake performance and utilizing regenerative braking features, fleets can significantly decrease brake replacement costs while increasing energy efficiency.
EV vehicles use regenerative brakes to maximize their performance and save on energy expenses. But, they are not so common in use yet. Traditional engine vehicles use Drum and Disc brakes. If you are looking for an affordable high-quality Drum brake hardware kit in Canada, Don’t waste a minute and shop one at Geobrakes Canada now.
Tip 5: Software Updates
EVs rely heavily on software for optimal operation, including battery management systems and energy efficiency algorithms. Regular software updates can improve vehicle performance, fix bugs, and improve battery management, leading to better overall efficiency and longevity.
Fleet managers should establish a routine for checking and applying updates either through dealership services or over-the-air updates when available.
FAQs:
- What maintenance is required for EV vehicles?
EVs don’t require a lot of maintenance because they have fewer mechanically moving parts. However, their battery, motor, and associated electric components require little to no regular maintenance. - Do EVs need more maintenance?
No, EVs have fever mechanical components that don't need regular maintenance. A traditional engine or hybrid car needs oil changes, cooling system flushes, transmission servicing, and replacements for air filters, drive belts, or spark plugs. But an Ev doesn't need this maintenance. - Do tires wear faster on electric cars?
Some companies have reported that tires on electric vehicles wear out up to 20% faster than on internal combustion vehicles because EVs produce instant torque.
- Can an EV last 20 years?
Yes, an EV battery or electric car motor lasts for 10-20 years. However, you have to replace its tires after a few miles due to their short lifespan.
- Can EVs use regular tires?
Yes, EVs can use regular tires but they will wear out quickly due it heavy battery weight. We recommend you use EV-specific tires that can withstand the battery's weight and the car's performance.