BERLIN: While many gained a sense of security, even satisfaction, through filling up the tank of a vehicle with a combustion engine, things are a little different when it comes to electric cars.

You shouldn't charge your EVs battery to 100% of its capacity, according to experts at TÜV Thüringen, a German technical inspection association.

Some modern charging systems limit charging to 80%, which is usually sufficient for everyday use. If you are taking a longer trip, on the other hand, you should enable full charging, as this is the only way to cover a long distance.

That will keep your battery healthy as long as it doesn't become a habit. Generally, try to prevent the charge from dropping below 10%, to avoid accelerating the reduction in capacity.

Another no-go: frequent fast-charging. Instead, try to charge your car's battery at a gentle pace at home or at public charging stations with 11 to 22 kW.

The battery, which is after all your ecar's most vital organ, also doesn't like long periods of just sitting around or excessive cold or heat. If your car is parked for a longer period of time, make sure your battery is charged to between 30% and 70%, with the vehicle ideally kept in a garage.

Not only does every charging cycle put a strain on the battery, but according to TÜV Thüringen, the capacity also inevitably decreases over time due to age. However, most manufacturers provide a guarantee for the battery, for example that after 160,000 kilometres or eight years of use, at least 70% of the original capacity is still usable.

 - dpa