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Electric car battery pack

All about electric car batteries

Driving the mobility of the future

In the path towards sustainable mobility, electrification arises as an efficient and quiet alternative, which can play an important role in the reduction of Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions. Together with renewable fuels and hydrogen, it is one of the pillars of Repsol's strategy to advance towards the decarbonization of transport.

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What is an electric car battery and how does it work?

Electric car batteries act an as energy accumulator, where electricity is stored that is then transmitted to the engine, in order to make the functioning of the vehicle possible.

The process is simple and efficient. When the electric car is plugged into an electrical outlet, the battery is charged with electricity, similar to filling a fuel tank. While the electric vehicle is in motion, the battery supplies the energy needed for operation, providing a quiet, emission-free driving experience. When the battery runs out, simply repeat the charging process to enjoy mobility again.

It's important to highlight that there are different types of electric car batteries, each one with its own capacity and power, but all of them share the same fundamental principle of generating, storing, and supplying energy to power the vehicle.

How long does an electric car battery last?

Electric car batteries currently offer an average range between 250 and 500 kilometers with a single charge. However, you have to bear in mind that this range can vary significantly depending on the vehicle model, as well as the capacity, power, and type of battery.

Car display showing battery recharge under braking

There are multiple factors that can influence the range of these vehicles. One of them is the climate.

  • In winter, energy consumption is increased due to the need to use the heating to keep the passenger compartment comfortable and defog the heated rear window.

  • In summer, the air conditioning can also affect the durability of the energy stored.

Another relevant factor is the amount of resources that the vehicles uses, such as the use of electric accessories and additional functions that can impact the performance of the battery.

Therefore, before choosing an electric car model it's important to bear in mind all these aspects, as they affect the vehicle's range. In any case, battery technology continues to evolve, and manufacturers are working to improve their efficiency and increase the range of cars.

How long does a battery take to charge?

The charging of electric car batteries is carried out by specific charging stations. Connecting the vehicle to the station through a specific connector starts the charging process, the duration of which depends on several factors. These include the capacity of the electric vehicle battery, the current charge level, the power of the car battery, and, of course, the capacity of the station itself.

Depending on the electric power they offer, there are different types of charging stations, each one with a different charging time. For example, slow charging stations can require between 4 and 8 hours to complete the battery, while ultra-fast charging stations are capable of filling up to 80% of the battery in just 10 minutes. The fours types of electric charging are the following:

Pictograma Reciclaje

Slow charging

This is the most common option for charging cars at home. Normally, it takes 4 to 8 hours to complete the vehicle's charging. This method requires a charger that works with single-phase AC.

Pictograma Reciclaje

Semi-fast charging

Intermediate speed charging generally takes between 1 and 3 hours to complete charging the vehicle. This charging method can be found in parking lots, shopping malls, or private garages.

Fast charging

It can reach 80% of your car's battery in about half an hour. These fast charging points are usually located at service stations or on public roads, as they require special DC chargers with a capacity of 50kW.

Ultra-fast charging

Your battery will be ready in 5-10 minutes. It's a very convenient option for long journeys and can only be found at service stations. The fastest charging systems are only compatible with certain electric cars, such as the Porsche Taycan or the Audi e-tron GT.

Electric car plugged into a public charging point

Where can I charge my electric car?

At Repsol, we assume a firm commitment to sustainable mobility, which has led us to establish more than 1,200 public charging points in Spain and Portugal. Our aim is to promote a widely accessible and well-distributed charging infrastructure, so that no user is more than 50 kilometers from a charging station. They are conveniently located on public roads, service stations, parking lots, and shopping malls, to ensure that drivers can charge the battery easily and simply. Find your closest electric charging point.

Electric car charger plugged into a private home

Install a charging point at your home

In order to enjoy greater convenience, at Repsol we offer you the option of having your own charging station at your private home or community garages. This solution allows you to charge your electric car's battery from your home, removing the need to depend exclusively on public charging points.

You can install a customized station, with 100% renewable, energy and choose the rate that best suits your needs and charging habits. To join sustainable mobility, consult how to make the installation at your home. 

Tips to look after your electric car's battery

The battery is one of the most important elements of your electric car, and in order to ensure optimal performance and prolong its useful life, you can follow these tips:

 

 

  1. Regulate the temperatures
    Extreme temperatures can negatively affect the health of the battery. Both the suffocating heat and intense cold can reduce its efficiency and useful life. In order to keep it in optimal conditions, park your electric car in cool and shady places during the summer, while in winter, avoid leaving it exposed to prolonged cold.                                                                   
  2. Don't rush to charge the battery
    Avoiding charging and discharging the battery completely is key to extending its useful life. Instead of waiting until the battery is completely dead to charge it, it is advisable to charge it when it is between 15% and 20% capacity, and disconnect it when it reaches around 80%.                    
  3. Use slow charging
    It's important to bear in mind that the frequent use of fast charging stations can generate excessive heat that may damage the battery of electric cars in the long term. Opting for slow charging, especially during the night or when the car is not urgently needed, is a recommended practice.                                                                                                                 
  4. Drive efficiently
    Driving style can also impact the durability of the battery. Aggressive driving, with hard acceleration and braking, can increase battery wear. In contrast, smooth and progressive driving, the use of ECO mode to optimize energy efficiency, and the maintenance of proper tire pressure can contribute to reducing energy consumption.

  5. Don't leave the vehicle parked for a long time
    It's recommended not to leave the electric vehicle parked for a long time. A battery that stays inactive for long periods can be damaged and affect its long-term performance. Whenever possible, it's advisable to move the car and charge it at least once every 15 days to keep the battery in good condition.