Long trip scenario. Which is better charge situation?

[SDDizzle]

I just took a 250 mile round trip in my new long range MY. I avoided charging to 100% and instead charged to 90% the night before. When getting home, I was left with 6%. There was some traffic.

I have heard it’s not great to charge to 100% too often but also not good to run close to empty. In my situation would it have been better for battery to charge to 100% then end with 15%? I guess the question is - what is worse for battery preservation - charging to full or running close to empty?

 

[Rice&Curry]

Charging it to 100% and keeping it idle is not advisable. You should drive it soon after it reaches 100% . Example - you charge it to 90 % over night and before your trip bump it up to 100% and drive soon after. regular driving and letting the charge go below 10% is also not advisable. Once in a while it is Ok and it will NOT harm the battery. 90% and 10% and both best practice guidance, but please read the manual and follow Tesla's guidance.

 

[HelixSpiral]

I don't know if there's any evidence that discharging to low SOC has any adverse effects on the battery. The risk of low SOC is being stranded if it gets cold or if there's not enough to top off a low 12V battery.

 

[Tam]

I just took a 250 mile round trip in my new long range MY. I avoided charging to 100% and instead charged to 90% the night before. When getting home, I was left with 6%. There was some traffic.

I have heard it’s not great to charge to 100% too often but also not good to run close to empty. In my situation would it have been better for battery to charge to 100% then end with 15%? I guess the question is - what is worse for battery preservation - charging to full or running close to empty?

2013 answer: Better to be at 100% than 0%. "Never, ever hesitate to use 100% Charge. Ever.":

Rule #1 – Use 100% Charge

The Rules of Model S Road Tripping

Driving a Tesla is a bit different from driving a gas car, or even most electric cars. On a daily basis, there is no concern about “range anxiety.” Owners expect their car to have a full “tank” every morning, and have enough range to do whatever they want. After a while they never look at the...

teslamotorsclub.com

 

[everydaychris]

i charge to 100 using the scheduled departure and leave right away with no issues!
i also charge to 100 at a supercharger if I know i'm not going to be near one for a while
been over a year and at 100% i'm at 324 miles so dont worry too much

 

[dchuck]

In addition to the points made above. Would you rather have a delay such as a flat tire or detour on the road with 6% or 15% battery left?

I think it is far better to start at 100% and have extra left over, than start at 90% and have to make an extra stop.

 

[garrett5688]

The way I think about it- 100% charge is a POSSIBLE long term concern… 0% charge and being stranded is guaranteed misery. Are you married? Traveling with spouse and/or kids?