What Causes the Phenomenon of 'Virtual Charge' in Electric Vehicles?
3 Answers
Electric vehicle batteries exhibit 'virtual charge' primarily due to severe sulfation, which leads to the degradation of battery capacity. Battery Usage Precautions: After fully charging an electric vehicle battery, it should not be left unused for extended periods. Otherwise, the activity of lithium ions in the battery may weaken. Once the battery is depleted, it should be recharged immediately. Avoid storing the battery in a discharged state, as prolonged discharge can affect battery capacity and lifespan. Common Battery Issues: With prolonged use or improper maintenance, the metal contacts of the battery may oxidize, potentially causing the device to shut down automatically or drop calls. It is recommended to clean the contacts thoroughly before use.
I've repaired many electric vehicles and often encountered the issue of false charge readings after charging, which usually stems from poorly calibrated battery management systems. The system relies on voltage to determine the charge level. If the battery is aging or affected by temperature fluctuations—for instance, low temperatures in winter causing lower charging voltage—the system might mistakenly indicate a full charge when it's actually insufficient. Similarly, high temperatures in summer can accelerate chemical reactions, leading to falsely elevated voltage readings. Frequent use of fast charging can easily cause imbalances in battery cells, making the system's readings inaccurate. It's recommended that owners occasionally perform a deep discharge followed by slow charging to recalibrate the system, and regular maintenance can prevent this issue. When checking, don't rush—first, check the dashboard for any warning lights. Safety first; handle the issue after parking. If this happens, visit a professional shop to scan the diagnostic codes with a tool to confirm the cause.
As a regular car owner who has been driving an electric vehicle for several years, I sometimes encounter situations where the battery shows 100% charge, but within less than half an hour of driving, the power drops sharply. This might be due to my over-reliance on fast charging—while it's quick, it can cause uneven battery conditions internally. Additionally, after driving on highways with the air conditioning on or sudden acceleration, the system might struggle to adjust, leading to false battery readings. Environmental factors also play a role; for example, charging under direct sunlight can heat up the battery and affect the readings. My solution is to get into the habit of charging slowly in shaded areas and unplugging once fully charged, avoiding the temptation to take shortcuts. False battery levels can be dangerous—if the car breaks down midway, you'll need to turn on the hazard lights and pull over. I also make it a habit to periodically take long-distance trips to test the actual range, which gives me more confidence. Remember, don’t rush to diagnose the issue—first check if there are any updates for the vehicle's software.
