Electric Vehicle Energy Drain: Root Causes, Analysis, and Efficiency Tips
In the ever-evolving world of electric vehicles (EVs), charging efficiency plays a crucial role in maximising the range and reducing costs for drivers. Here's a breakdown of the key points from the ADAC 2022 testing, offering insights into charging methods, efficiency, and best practices.
This year's testing included three major electric car manufacturers: Hyundai, Škoda, and Volkswagen. The models under scrutiny ranged from the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Inster, Škoda Elroq 85x and Enyaq 85x, to the VW ID.7 Pro. Interestingly, the Škoda Enyaq 85x and Elroq 85x secured top positions for efficiency, while the Hyundai Kona and Inster, which do not utilise 800-volt systems, have higher compromises due to relatively higher charging losses.
When it comes to charging, the choice between a wallbox and a household socket can significantly impact efficiency and cost. Charging at a wallbox instead of a household socket can reduce charging loss by a substantial 14.5%, translating to approximately 120 euros in savings per year for an annual mileage of 10,000 km, as demonstrated by the ADAC test using the Renault Zoe as an example.
However, charging at a household socket results in a charging loss ranging between 10% and 30%, depending on the model and charging power. In contrast, the charging loss at a wallbox is around 5% to 10%. This reduction in charging loss not only saves money but also shortens the charging time, as high charging power minimises the time the control electronics consume power.
The factors contributing to charging loss are numerous, including the plug, household distribution box, feed line, onboard charging device, high-voltage cable, high-voltage battery, battery heating/cooling, and 12-V on-board network.
Experts have identified room for improvement in the efficiency of onboard charging devices, urging manufacturers to focus on this area for future developments. In addition, transparency in charging losses is encouraged by ADAC, with manufacturers urged to provide clear information to consumers.
Lastly, it's worth noting that a warm battery is more efficient, especially in winter. Therefore, it's beneficial to charge immediately after driving to ensure optimal battery temperature. This simple practice can contribute to improved efficiency and a longer range in colder weather.
In conclusion, choosing the right charging method and understanding the factors influencing charging efficiency can help electric vehicle owners maximise their range and save costs. By following best practices and encouraging manufacturers to improve onboard charging devices, the future of electric vehicles looks promising for both efficiency and user experience.
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