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Electric Car Batteries

Here, find out everything you need to know about electric car batteries - from how they work to how to look after them. All so you can get the most out of your EV.

Electric Car Batteries

What are electric car batteries made of?

Instead of an engine, electric cars contain a battery pack, inside which are rows of lithium-ion cells. They also contain some other metals and elements including:

  • Iron
  • Aluminium
  • Copper
  • Cobalt
  • Manganese

They’re a popular choice for electric cars due to their energy density and cost-efficiency. They are also safer than other options, making them more reliable.

How do electric car batteries work?

The battery stores energy that will send electricity to the electric motor/s that powers the wheels. Once the battery level has depleted, it will need recharging much like the battery in a smartphone.

Some batteries are able to charge on the go through regenerative braking. This is where energy normally lost when slowing down is captured and sent back to the battery to charge it. These batteries are normally found in self-charging hybrids – a type of hybrid car.

Others, however, will need to be plugged into a power source. Electric car batteries can be charged at home using a domestic three-pin plug or wallbox, or on the go at a public charging station. Learn more about the different ways to charge your EV on our charging page.

Electric car battery lifespan

For many EV owners, how long the battery lasts is a key concern. With their advanced technology, electric car batteries are expected to last as long as 10-15 years (or 100,000+ miles). That’s around the same as a normal petrol or diesel car!

To help maintain your battery’s lifespan, there are a few do’s and don’ts:

Do:

  • Keep your battery topped up between 20-80%
  • Leave your battery to cool down before charging if possible
  • Practice gentle braking and acceleration to conserve your range

Don’t:

  • Expose your battery to extreme temperatures
  • Overcharge your battery or let it run flat
  • Use rapid charging too often

For more detail on these, check out our blog on extending your electric car’s battery life.

Electric car battery ranges

The range provided depends on the size or capacity of the battery. Today, most electric cars offer an average range of 300 miles or more. As technology improves and charging networks expand, however, ranges of 400 miles and above are becoming common.

When choosing an electric car, consider the types of journeys you’ll cover. This helps you decide whether one is right for you. Shorter commutes, for instance, are ideal for electric cars, or frequent visits to town centres where Low Emission Zones (LEZs) are in force.

Your power source for all things EV

Want to know more about electric cars? Explore our Electric Car Hub and find all the information you need – from charging and maintenance to incentives and more.

Head back to the Hub

Frequently Asked Questions

Can electric car batteries be recycled?

The lithium-ion cells inside electric car batteries are indeed recyclable. Techniques such as solvent extraction mean up to 95% of the raw materials in electric car batteries can be recycled. This, along with zero emissions, gives electric cars an exceptionally low carbon footprint.

Who makes electric car batteries?

There are lots of companies worldwide that specialise in electric battery production. Some of these include:

  • Contemporary Amperex Technology Limited (CATL) – known for their long-lasting and fast-charging lithium-ion batteries.
  • Build Your Dreams (BYD) – a Chinese manufacturer selling a range of battery electric vehicle (BEV) and plug-in hybrid cars. Each containing their industry-leading Blade battery.
  • Panasonic – the same company developing lithium-ion batteries for notebook PCs. They joined the automotive market in the early 2000s.
  • SK Innovation – a South Korean company that has specialised in producing batteries for mid to large-sized EVs since 1991.
  • CALB – produces lithium-ion batteries for EVs and other products, based in China.
  • Gotion High-Tech – a global manufacturer recognised for their electric battery production.
  • SUNWODA – another industry leader in the production of lithium-ion batteries.
  • Farasis Energy – a China-based company specialising in sustainable technologies, including EV batteries.

What drains an electric car battery the most?

Other than driving itself, the main thing that can drain your battery is using the climate control. This is because heating or cooling the cabin uses energy from your battery which reduces your range.

Other things that rely on your electrical system include:

  • Heated mirrors or windscreens
  • Headlights, indicators, and brake lights
  • Touchscreen infotainment systems
  • USB chargers
  • Audio system
  • Heated seats or steering wheel

How much does it cost to replace an electric car battery?

Prices for replacing an electric car battery vary. Since they use more advanced technology than a petrol or diesel engine, replacements can be costly. Thankfully, as long as your battery is undamaged and properly maintained, you should not need a replacement.