Should You Charge Your Tesla 100% Road Trip?

By Michael Ferguson

As a Tesla owner, one of the most important decisions you have to make when planning a road trip is how much to charge your car. While it may be tempting to charge your car up to 100%, there are several factors you need to consider before doing so.

The Pros of Charging Your Tesla to 100%
The main advantage of charging your Tesla up to 100% is that it will give you the maximum range possible. This is particularly useful if you’re planning a long road trip and don’t want to stop for too many charging breaks. It can also give you peace of mind knowing that you have plenty of battery life in case unexpected detours or weather conditions require more power than anticipated.

The Cons of Charging Your Tesla to 100%
Charging your Tesla up to 100% on a regular basis can lead to faster battery degradation over time. This means that the battery will hold less and less charge as time goes on, reducing the overall lifespan of the battery. Additionally, charging your car up to 100% can increase the risk of overheating and can lead to reduced performance in extreme temperatures.

What Experts Say
Tesla CEO Elon Musk has advised against regularly charging your Tesla up to 100%. In a tweet from August 2019, Musk wrote: ““Just as a rough guess, probably <10% impact at 90% vs 100% soc for range, but in general, I’d recommend not routinely charging above ~90%.” According to Tesla's website, "For normal daily usage, we recommend keeping your vehicle set between 50%-90%". The website also states that charging beyond this range should only be done for long-distance travel and not as a regular practice. What You Should Do Instead
Instead of charging your Tesla up to 100%, aim for around an 80-90% charge when planning a road trip. This will still give you plenty of range, without putting unnecessary strain on your battery. Additionally, it’s recommended that you avoid letting your battery level drop below 20%, as this can also lead to increased battery degradation.

Conclusion

While it may be tempting to charge your Tesla up to 100% before a road trip, it’s important to consider the long-term effects on your battery’s lifespan. Instead, aim for a lower charge percentage and plan for more frequent charging stops if necessary. By taking care of your Tesla’s battery, you’ll ensure that it continues to perform at its best for years to come.