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How do I Choose the Best Electric Vehicle Battery?

Tess C. Taylor
Tess C. Taylor

Due to the rising costs in oil products, many more consumers are choosing electric vehicles and equipment. Electrical powered vehicles are less taxing on the environment, cost less per year to operate and are easier to maintain. When and if an electrical vehicle battery needs to be replaced, other than the outright cost to replace the battery, there are several things to consider when choosing the right electric vehicle battery.

Electrically-powered vehicle batteries come in multiple sizes and strengths, depending on the type of vehicle being powered and the physical dimensions of your vehicle. The best way to determine which electric vehicle battery to choose is by checking all manufacturer manuals that came with your vehicle. In most cases, a detailed description of what kind of electrical vehicle battery should be used will be included with the manufacturer information.

Electric cars must have their batteries replenished at charging stations.
Electric cars must have their batteries replenished at charging stations.

There are other ways to determine what type of electric vehicle battery is needed for your machine, should you find yourself without access to a manufacturer's guide. Batteries are generally ranked according to cold crank amps, which is how much power is needed to power the battery from a cold state to an operational state. Different electrical vehicles need different cold crank amp levels to start up and maintain a running strength while in operation. The higher the cold crank amp value, the better chance of having a reliable battery.

Traditional car batteries cannot be used in hybrid or electric cars.
Traditional car batteries cannot be used in hybrid or electric cars.

In addition, electrical vehicle batteries are grouped by the reserve capacity (RC) of the battery. The RC powers your vehicle’s electrical system in coordination with the vehicle alternator, which provides lasting power for the vehicle. If the battery does not have adequate RC, the vehicle will repeatedly fail or stall out when running. Choosing a battery with the correct RC level is vitally important to the proper functioning of the vehicle you are operating. Look for a “deep cycle” electric vehicle battery that has a high RC level.

Another factor to consider when choosing an electric vehicle battery is the actual size and dimensions of the vehicle being operated. Again, checking with the vehicle manufacturer is generally the best way to determine what size battery should be used. In addition, taking a few minutes to actually measure the battery compartment and taking measurements of the existing battery can be easily done. Also note where the battery connections are located and if the replacement battery will fit these connections properly.

When choosing the right battery for your electrical powered vehicle, one important thing to keep in mind is the freshness of the battery itself. This can be of special concern when purchasing a used battery when the age is questionable. Be sure to purchase electric vehicle batteries from a reliable retailer that can offer a guarantee for the battery life in case you run into any issues. In addition, ask about battery warranties which can offer a free replacement in the future.

Discussion Comments

anon138388

What a load of crap. EV's need a deep discharge battery not one designed for cranking engines !

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    • Electric cars must have their batteries replenished at charging stations.
      By: viappy
      Electric cars must have their batteries replenished at charging stations.
    • Traditional car batteries cannot be used in hybrid or electric cars.
      By: Avantgarde
      Traditional car batteries cannot be used in hybrid or electric cars.