Fast charging electric vehicles (EVs) has become an integral part of electromobility, especially for those traveling long distances. Despite advanced technology and increasingly robust infrastructure, users still make mistakes that can affect charging efficiency, battery life, and overall convenience. In this article, we will explore the most common mistakes in fast charging and provide tips on how to avoid them.
One of the primary challenges is using incompatible chargers. Each EV has a specific charging connector, such as CCS, CHAdeMO, or Type 2. Attempting to use the wrong connector can lead to frustration and, in the worst cases, damage to the charging system.
How to avoid this? Before traveling, check your vehicle’s manual and ensure the selected charging stations support the appropriate standard. Many mobile apps provide information about charging station compatibility with various car models.
Some charging stations offer higher power levels than the vehicle can handle. Attempting to charge at the station’s maximum power can cause the battery to overheat and automatically reduce charging speed.
Solution: Check your vehicle’s specifications for maximum charging power and choose stations that match those parameters. This prevents unnecessary strain on the system.
Many users delay charging until the battery level is critically low. This approach not only extends the charging time but can also negatively impact battery life.
Why is this important? Lithium-ion batteries perform best when kept between 20–80% charge. Repeatedly draining them below 10% can accelerate wear.
Another common mistake is failing to plan routes with available fast charging stations. Drivers often need to take detours, increasing travel time and unnecessary costs.
How to prevent this? Use apps like PlugShare to find the nearest compatible stations and check their real-time availability.
Modern EVs regularly receive software updates that improve charging system functionality. Without updates, communication issues between the car and the charging station may arise.
What should you do? Regularly update your vehicle’s software according to the manufacturer’s recommendations to avoid incompatibility with new charging stations.
One of the simpler yet frequent mistakes is improper connection or disconnection of the charging cable. This can damage both the cable and the car’s charging port.
Best practices: Follow the charging station’s instructions. Ensure the charging process is complete before disconnecting the cable.
Fast charging generates significant heat, which in extreme cases can cause the battery to overheat. While EVs are equipped with thermal management systems, frequent fast charging in a short period can strain these systems.
How to prevent this? Ensure the battery is at an optimal temperature before charging. On colder days, use the vehicle’s built-in battery heating system if available.
In winter conditions, charging efficiency can drop significantly, extending the time needed for a full charge. Batteries must first reach an appropriate operating temperature.
Solution: Park your car in a garage or sheltered area on cold days to minimize exposure to extreme low temperatures.
Many charging stations require users to register or activate the charging session via an app or RFID card. Lack of familiarity with this process often leads to frustration.
Tip: Ensure you have access to the operator’s app and that your account is active before starting a charging session.
Some users forget to update their payment details in apps, which can prevent the charging session from starting.
What can you do? Regularly check your charging app accounts and update payment information as needed.
Fast charging is an essential part of the EV experience, but it requires awareness and a proper approach. To avoid issues:
By following these guidelines, you can enhance charging efficiency, extend battery life, and increase your satisfaction with owning an electric vehicle.
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