Biggest Thing Before Buying an EV In India - After 2 Years of Experience

Summary

In this insightful video, Ranjit highlights the often-overlooked aspects of electric vehicle (EV) ownership in India. He discusses the importance of choosing EVs with LFP batteries over NMC ones for better performance in hot climates and longer battery life. Ranjit also emphasizes the crucial issue of charging infrastructure, especially for those living in flats, where charging points may be limited or difficult to access. With practical advice on home charger installations and the long-term effects of DC fast charging, he urges future EV buyers to consider their charging options carefully to ensure a smooth and sustainable ownership experience.

Takeaways

• 😀 LFP batteries are better for the Indian climate compared to NMC batteries, as they can withstand extreme heat and offer a much higher number of charge cycles (1,500 to 3,000).
• 😀 Most EV manufacturers in India are now switching to LFP batteries, making them a more reliable choice for long-term EV ownership.
• 😀 AC charging is ideal for long-term battery health, as frequent use of DC fast chargers can damage the battery over time.
• 😀 The 3.3 kW charger included with most EVs may be fine for smaller batteries, but it will take too long to charge larger batteries (e.g., 45 kWh, 60 kWh).
• 😀 If you're planning to install a faster AC charger (7.2 kW or 11 kW), ensure your home’s electricity load can handle the increased power requirements.
• 😀 Many EV owners in apartment complexes face challenges finding available charging points, leading to scheduling conflicts and frustration.
• 😀 Charging in apartments may require the installation of a dedicated meter and charger, which can be expensive (up to ₹75,000 for installation).
• 😀 To maintain battery efficiency, LFP batteries should be charged to 100%, not 80%, to ensure accurate range readings and optimal battery performance.
• 😀 With the increase in EV ownership, charging points in residential complexes may become overcrowded, making it difficult to find time to charge your vehicle.
• 😀 It's essential to check with your society or housing complex about available charging infrastructure before purchasing an EV, as older buildings may lack proper charging facilities.
• 😀 The growing adoption of EVs in India, especially in urban areas, will lead to increased demand for charging infrastructure, making it a critical factor to consider before buying an electric vehicle.

Q & A

What is the main advantage of LFP batteries over NMC batteries for EVs in India?

LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) batteries are better suited for India's hot climate compared to NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt) batteries. LFP batteries also have a much longer lifespan, offering up to 3,000 charge cycles, whereas NMC batteries only last around 700-750 charge cycles.

Why is it not advisable to rely solely on DC fast chargers for EV charging?

Regular use of DC fast chargers can damage an EV's battery over time. While DC chargers are quick, they should be used sparingly. To preserve battery health, it is recommended to charge the car at home using an AC charger, which is gentler on the battery.

How can DC charging impact the battery in the long term?

Continuous use of DC fast charging can degrade the battery’s lifespan and reduce its efficiency. It is advised to use DC chargers only occasionally and to perform regular charging using AC chargers to maintain optimal battery health.

What is the recommended charging method for EVs to ensure the best battery efficiency?

To get the best efficiency from your EV's battery, you should charge it to 100% regularly, not just to 50-60%. This is especially important for LFP batteries, which perform best when charged fully.

What challenges do EV owners face when living in apartments?

EV owners in apartments often face issues with limited charging infrastructure, such as a lack of dedicated charging spots. Additionally, the available charging points may be slow (like a 3.3 kW charger), leading to longer charging times and frustration. Some apartments may also require expensive upgrades to support faster charging solutions.

How does the size of the battery affect the charging time?

The larger the EV battery, the longer it will take to charge, especially if you're using a slower charger like the 3.3 kW option. For example, a 79 kWh battery can take over 28 hours to charge with a 3.3 kW charger, making it impractical for regular use. A faster charger like the 7.2 kW charger is necessary for larger batteries.

What issues did Ranjit face when trying to charge his Nexon EV in an apartment?

Ranjit faced significant charging challenges while living in an apartment complex. He had limited access to a shared 16-amp point, which was much slower than required for his Nexon EV Max. The complex had only two charging points for over 100 flats, leading to overcrowding and the need for WhatsApp coordination to manage charging times.

What are the potential costs associated with installing a home EV charger?

Installing a home EV charger can be expensive. For instance, one of Ranjit's neighbors had to spend approximately ₹75,000 to install a dedicated meter and wiring to handle the increased electricity load for EV charging. Costs can vary depending on the installation requirements and the distance from the charging point.

What is the minimum electrical load required to install a 7.2 kW AC charger?

To install a 7.2 kW AC charger, the minimum required electrical load is usually around 5 kW. However, in many smaller houses or apartments, the standard load is only 3-4 kW, meaning homeowners may need to upgrade their electricity supply to handle the additional load.

What are the potential consequences of not having adequate charging infrastructure in an apartment or society?

If there is insufficient charging infrastructure in an apartment or society, EV owners may struggle to find a place to charge their cars. This can lead to long waiting times, increased frustration, and in extreme cases, owners may decide to sell their EVs due to the inconvenience of charging issues.