Tesla Model 3 Endured 203,000 Miles with Minimal Battery Degradation, Contradicting the Commonly Discussed '80% Rule' for Chevrolet Equinox EV Battery
Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular, but many drivers are unsure about how to maintain their batteries to ensure a long lifespan and prevent degradation. According to EV owners such as Rick Malek, Bart Spainhour, and Kevin Wall, the key to maximizing battery life lies in temperature management, charging habits, and proper storage.
Rick Malek, a four-time EV owner who is now the pilot of a Chevrolet Equinox EV, suggests living by the ABC rule: Always Be Charging. Malek advises charging to 60% if driving 60 miles a day and discharging to 40%. However, he also advises against being afraid to charge past 85% if necessary, but using the ABC rule is critical. Malek's Tesla Model 3 has clocked 203,000 miles with only 9% battery degradation.
Bart Spainhour, another Equinox EV owner, advises against discharging too low and tries not to go below 15-20% ever. However, he also emphasizes that sitting at any state of charge is sub-optimal. Malek and Spainhour's advice aligns with the general consensus that keeping the battery within an optimal charge range, typically between 20% and 80%, is important for preserving battery health.
Charging habits are also crucial. The "80% Rule" in the EV world is considered an old wives' tale, part truth, part misunderstanding, and mostly well-intentioned caution. According to Malek, the rule is not necessary, but it is important to avoid regularly charging to 100% or letting the charge drop below 20-30%. Avoiding frequent charging cycles is also recommended to prevent battery wear.
In terms of charging, preferring Level 2 (moderate speed) charging over frequent rapid charging is advised, especially avoiding fast charging above 80% state of charge. Level 1 (slow) charging is gentler but slower and best for overnight top-ups. It's also important to monitor and manage battery temperature carefully, as extreme heat can decrease battery performance by up to 31% in hot conditions. Whenever possible, park in shaded or climate-controlled environments to avoid overheating.
The 2025 Equinox EV is powered by GM's Ultium battery, supports 150 kW DC fast-charging, and up to 19.2 kW Level 2 AC. If a Level 2 charger does not have the ability to adjust the amperage, Malek advises getting one that does.
Kevin Wall, another longtime EV veteran, drives less than 10 miles a day and lives/lived the 50% lifestyle with his EVs. Wall sold his 2015 Model S at 100k miles with 95% battery health. Wall's advice is that if you drive less than 60 miles a day, it may be beneficial to charge to 50% and discharge to 25%.
In summary, to maximize EV battery lifespan, maintain a moderate state of charge (20-80%), avoid frequent full charges or discharges, minimize frequent fast charging, and protect the battery from thermal extremes through proper parking and climate control. By following these best practices, EV owners can ensure their vehicles have a long and healthy life.
- Adopting a lifestyle that prioritizes charging electric vehicles (EVs) regularly, according to the ABC rule (Always Be Charging), and maintaining a moderate state of charge (20-80%) can help extend the battery lifespan of EVs.
- Tech-savvy car enthusiasts, such as Rick Malek, Bart Spainhour, and Kevin Wall, advocate for smart charging habits, including avoiding frequent fast charging above 80% state of charge, monitoring and managing battery temperature, and using Level 2 chargers with adjustable amperage to prolong the battery life of their EVs.
