Is It Safe To Drive My EV On Low Battery In An Emergency?

Can I Drive My EV On Low Battery Or Not? (AI Generated Image)

As more car buyers adopt electric vehicles (EVs) across the country, new buyers are bound to face a low battery situation at some point during their ownership. With EV technology and maintenance awareness still in its growing stage among the masses, many EV owners may wonder if it is ok to drive their electric car on a low battery state of charge during an emergency. Unlike petrol-diesel cars that run the risk of damaging their fuel pumps on low fuel levels, an electric car has other considerations that need to be made by the drivers.

‘Do Not Panic, Be Strategic’

Driving an EV with a low battery can be risky, especially in emergencies. Electric vehicles typically have a range that varies based on driving conditions, terrain, and usage. When the battery level dips significantly, the vehicle may enter ‘limp mode’, which limits power and speed to conserve energy. This situation can make it challenging to navigate urgent scenarios, such as needing to reach a charging station quickly.

Leveraging charging provider mobile applications to identify the nearest available public charger becomes crucial in such a situation. While the electric vehicle may continue to operate till it reaches 0 percent state of charge, during an emergency, drivers should expend their leftover charge in a strategic manner. In case, you can reach a slow charging point before a public charger, then it is advisable to juice up your EV slightly using the portable charger before heading to a DC fast public charger to top up.

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In terms of facing an occasional low battery situation, drivers should not panic unnecessarily. There are several myths regarding EV battery performance, particularly related to low battery operation. One common misconception is that driving an EV on a low battery can permanently damage the battery. While it is true that deep discharging can affect battery health over time, modern EVs are designed with battery management systems that prevent complete depletion. This means that while it is not advisable to operate on a low charge, occasional low battery situations are unlikely to cause immediate harm. Hence, EV drivers should familiarise themselves with common charging points on their usual routes and have relevant charging provider apps downloaded on their phone for an easy task management experience.

Amber Banerjee is a seasoned automotive journalist with over a decade of experience covering the Indian mobility landscape. Skilled in writing, video …

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