How to keep your electric vehicle battery in good shape and charge it efficiently

​By adopting the right charging habits, you can make your electric vehicle (EV) charging more efficient and significantly extend the battery’s lifespan. Watch the videos below for some basic tips that will show you how to do it.​

Electric vehicles are user-friendly in many ways – they require virtually no special maintenance. Unlike combustion engines, their batteries and electric motors don’t need oil changes, spark plug replacements, or similar servicing. Owners also don’t have to worry about cold starts in winter. However, smart and considerate usage can make living with an EV even easier and help extend the battery’s life. Two videos from Škoda Auto explain the key principles

The battery is the key component in terms of a service life of an electric vehicle. It performs best when used without major extremes. In practice, that means regular use while avoiding long periods at very low or full charge levels. Ideally, you should keep the battery between 20% and 80% of its capacity. The Battery Care function available in Škoda vehicles helps drivers monitor and maintain optimal charge levels. It can be activated, deactivated, or temporarily overridden as needed. ​

Battery care and efficient charging guidelines

• Avoid leaving the battery nearly empty or fully charged for long periods. The optimal range is between 20% and 80% capacity.
• Use the Battery Care function to monitor and maintain suitable charge levels.
• Whenever possible, use slower AC charging, which is gentler on the battery.
• Don't worry about DC charging but be aware that it is fastest up to about 80% capacity.
• Before a long trip, it’s fine to charge the battery to 100%.
• Let the car’s built-in navigation plan charging stops. If you don’t use it, activate the battery preheating function manually before arriving at the charger, especially in cold weather.
• Plan your charging stops before you set off conveniently from the comfort of your home using the MyŠkoda app.

​Charging is also faster and more efficient when the battery is at its optimal temperature. There are two ways to achieve this: ideally, use the vehicle’s built-in navigation system, which automatically plans charging stops and preheats the battery before arrival. Alternatively, drivers can activate the preheating manually via the car’s infotainment system.

Škoda’s digital services also make charging easier. With the MyŠkoda app, you can plan your route and charging stops from the comfort of your home and send it directly to your vehicle. On the road, the Powerpass service allows convenient access to over 900,000 charging stations across Europe, including the ultra-fast Ionity network. Selected stations even support Plug & Charge, eliminating the need for card-based authentication at the charger.

At Ingram Škoda Ayr, we’re here to help you get the most from your Škoda — whether it’s petrol, hybrid, or fully electric. By following these simple battery care and charging tips, you’ll enjoy smoother drives, longer battery life, and maximum efficiency from your vehicle.

Our expert team in Ayr is always ready to assist with charging advice, software updates, and servicing to keep your Škoda performing at its best.