Picture this – it’s the end of the summer, and you’ve just returned from a memorable road trip in your electric vehicle. As the leaves begin their colourful descent, signaling the arrival of a quieter season, a crucial task lies ahead. It’s time to ensure your prized possession is prepared to hibernate safely until your next adventure beckons.
Proper storage of your electric vehicle is not just a matter of convenience; it’s a key factor in preserving your vehicle’s longevity, performance, and ensuring it’s in prime condition when you’re ready to hit the road again. From the nuances of battery care to choosing the right storage facility, this guide will cover everything you need to know to protect your electric vehicle and ensure many more unforgettable adventures together.
Understanding Electrical Vehicle Storage Needs
When it comes to maintaining the health and longevity of your electric vehicle while in storage, two key factors to consider are climate considerations and battery health.
Climate Considerations
The environment significantly impacts the well-being of your electric vehicle. Extreme temperatures, be it cold or hot, can adversely affect the performance and lifespan of your electric vehicle’s battery. In cold climates, battery efficiency can diminish, while in hotter environments, there’s an increased risk of battery degradation. Therefore, selecting a storage facility that provides enclosed indoor spaces is essential. Such facilities offer protection from harsh climatic conditions, ensuring your vehicle is shielded from environmental extremes.
Battery Health
The battery is the heart of your electric vehicle and demands special care, especially during storage. For optimal health and extended battery life, it’s advisable to store the electric vehicles’s battery in a partially charged state, ideally between 50-80%. This range helps in minimising stress on the battery. It’s equally important to avoid overcharging the battery or letting it fully deplete. Both extremes can lead to irreversible damage, significantly impacting the battery’s efficiency and lifespan. By focusing on these aspects of battery care, you can significantly enhance the overall performance and durability of your electric vehicle.
How To Store Your Electric Vehicle
Storing your electric vehicle requires careful preparation and the right choice of storage facilities.
Pre-Storage Preparation
To prepare your electric vehicle for storage, adhere to the following checklist:
- Thoroughly clean the vehicle, both interior and exterior, to prevent any long-term damage or deterioration.
- Inflate the tyres to the recommended pressure, and consider slightly over-inflating them to avoid flat spots.
- Ensure all essential fluids are topped up, and if the vehicle will be stored for a prolonged period, consider an oil change.
- Charge the battery to the level recommended by the manufacturer specifically for storage.
Choosing the Right Storage Facility
Selecting an appropriate storage facility for your electric vehicle involves considering several critical aspects:
- Indoor Storage: Choose a facility that offers enclosed spaces, protecting your vehicle from environmental elements.
- Security: Confirm that the facility has strong security measures, such as surveillance cameras and secure access controls.
- Charging Options: Check for the availability of charging stations or electrical outlets.
- Additional Services: Some facilities may offer services like periodic vehicle checks, maintenance, or even detailing.
Tips for Electrical Vehicle Long-Term Storage
Battery Maintenance Techniques
For extended storage periods, it’s vital to maintain the battery’s health:
- Use a trickle charger or a dedicated electric vehicle battery maintainer to keep the battery at its ideal storage charge.
- Regularly monitor the charge level to prevent deep discharge, which can harm the battery.
Software and Firmware Updates
Keeping your electric vehicle’s software and firmware up to date is crucial, even during storage:
- These updates can enhance the battery management system, charging protocols, and overall vehicle performance.
- Ensure your vehicle is connected to a network or periodically started to receive and install these updates, optimising battery life and efficiency.
Potential Risks and How to Mitigate Them
Tyre Flat Spotting
To prevent tyre flat spotting due to extended immobility:
- Consider rotating the tyres every few months or use tyre cradles to evenly distribute weight.
- Maintain the correct tyre pressure throughout the storage period.
Electronics Preservation
To protect your electric vehicle’s electronics:
- Store in a dry environment, free from extreme temperature variations.
- Control humidity in the storage area to prevent electrical issues or corrosion.
Emerging Technologies in Electric Vehicle Storage
Innovative Storage Solutions
The future of electrical vehicle storage includes smart systems that can actively manage the charging, climate control, and overall condition of your electric vehicle. These systems adjust settings in real-time based on the specific needs of your vehicle.
Remote Monitoring Apps
Leverage the power of technology with remote monitoring apps. These apps allow you to check on your electric vehicle’s status, receive alerts for any required maintenance, and even control charging and climate settings remotely.
Discover Premium Electric Vehicle Storage with VIP Storage
Storing your electric vehicle effectively is key to ensuring it remains in pristine condition, ready for the roads at a moment’s notice. By following these comprehensive tips and entrusting your electric vehicle to a specialised facility like VIP Car Storage, you can rest easy knowing your electric vehicle is in expert hands.
Get in touch with the friendly team at VIP Car Storage to find the right car storage service for your electric vehicle today.