How to Maintain a 12V Battery in Electric Vehicles
JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com – In addition to the main power battery, electric vehicles still use a 12-volt battery like conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. This component is crucial for supplying power to the vehicle’s electronic systems.
Jaecoo Aftersales Service Operation Manager Bayu Agus Mustofa explained that the 12-volt battery in electric vehicles continues to function even when the vehicle is turned off.
“As you may know in ICE vehicles, the battery still draws a small current when the car is off, for example to maintain the clock and other functions. The same applies to electric vehicles,” Bayu said in North Jakarta recently.
“Even when the vehicle is off, the battery still consumes a small amount of current,” he added.
Therefore, electric vehicle owners are advised to start the vehicle periodically to maintain the 12-volt battery’s condition. Bayu explained that this concept is similar to the practice of warming up petrol-powered cars.
“If you usually warm up a petrol car in the morning, the same should apply to electric vehicles,” Bayu said.
In electric vehicles, the 12-volt battery receives power from the power battery via a DC-DC converter. When the vehicle is in ready mode, the main battery automatically recharges the 12-volt battery.
“The 12-volt battery is charged by the power battery through the DC-DC converter. So, if you start the car and run the air conditioning every two to four days, the 12V battery’s state of charge (SOC) will recharge automatically,” Bayu said.
“If you plan to leave your vehicle for an extended trip, ensure the power battery is charged above 50 percent and disconnect the negative terminal of the 12-volt battery,” Bayu advised.
It is important to note that the 12-volt battery in electric vehicles plays a critical role in activating the vehicle’s electronic systems, including the computer, lights, and access controls. Therefore, if the 12-volt battery is faulty or depleted, the electric vehicle may be difficult to start even if the main battery still has charge.