Next up on our new series, Ask the EV Expert, we answer a question from Eileen in Connecticut. Have a question of your own? Post it on Facebook, Tweet at us or email us at info@pluginamerica.org #AskTheEVExpert
I’m leaving town for a few weeks, and I have three questions!
Question:
Should I leave my car unplugged while I’m gone or should I plug it in?
Answer:
This is a very common concern among electric car owners. It’s always suggested to consult your owner’s manual first, as different cars have different protocols. If you have a Chevy Volt, a Ford Energi, or a BMW i3, then yes, please do keep it plugged in while you’re away. For these vehicles, leaving the car plugged in allows for the battery’s thermal management system to function optimally. If you have a Nissan Leaf, it is suggested that you leave your car unplugged but adequately charged, as leaving the car plugged in for weeks on end may drain the car’s 12-volt battery (although the traction battery will be fine). Should this happen, no problem, just jump-start your Leaf like you would any other car. Tesla recommends that owners keep their cars plugged in but set for 50 percent charge.
Question:
Will leaving the car plugged in or unplugged for several weeks hurt the battery?
Answer:
No, it will not do any damage to your battery. Definitely do follow the instructions in your owner’s manual, but know that modern electric car batteries are very sophisticated and very robust, and leaving them plugged in or unplugged for several weeks likely won’t do any damage.
Question:
Does it cost me anything extra on my electric bill to keep my car plugged in for a few weeks while I’m away?
Answer:
Assuming that your car is designed to be plugged in while you’re away, the cost will likely be miniscule. Once the battery is full or charges to the preset level, the car will only draw more power if needed; it won’t be continuously charging the car for weeks on end.
