How To Charge Tesla Model Y, Tips for Uber & Lyft
If you're considering using your Tesla Model Y AWD Long Range for ridesharing with services like Uber and Lyft, one of the crucial aspects to manage is how you charge your vehicle. Here's a guide to help you maximize efficiency, battery health, and cost-effectiveness.
Tesla Model Y, used for Uber and Lyft rides.
Understanding Battery Health
First off, let's talk about battery health. The lithium-ion batteries in Tesla vehicles, while robust, do have an optimal charging strategy to prolong their life. Charging to 100% frequently can potentially degrade battery performance over time. Tesla recommends charging to 90% for daily use to maintain the best balance between range and battery longevity.
Charging for Ridesharing
Ridesharing with Uber and Lyft can mean long hours on the road, potentially requiring more range than your average daily commute:
Daily Charging: For most days, charging to 80% or 90% should be more than enough for the typical Uber or Lyft shift. This not only preserves battery health but also keeps you within a range you can manage without constant recharges.
When to Charge to 100%: Only go for a full charge when you anticipate needing maximum range. This might be for:
Longer shifts where you'll cover more ground.
Days where you plan trips outside of urban areas where charging stations might be sparse.
Special occasions where you expect to drive significantly more than usual.
Cost Considerations
Electricity Costs: Charging to full capacity is more costly in terms of electricity. If you're charging at home, this might not be a big deal, but with public chargers, especially Tesla Superchargers, the costs can add up. For example, one driver reported a charge from 68% to 100% costing around $9, suggesting a full charge could be around $20, potentially done twice a day for long shifts.
Time Efficiency: Full charges take longer, and unless you have downtime during your shift, this could mean less time earning money.
Range Management
Tesla's battery management system (BMS) is excellent at providing optimal range and performance. However:
80% Charge Sweet Spot: Many drivers find that an 80% charge is adequate for most days, offering a good balance between range and battery health. You might only need to top up to 100% for planned long distances or when you know you'll be driving beyond your usual limits.
Monitor Your Usage: Pay attention to your daily usage patterns. If you're consistently running low on battery, you might need to adjust your charging strategy or consider how you can optimize your routes and shift times.
User Experience in Ridesharing
From the experiences of drivers:
Battery Management: Charging to 80-90% has been reported as sufficient for most Uber and Lyft shifts, with only occasional needs to go to 100%.
Flexibility: The flexibility of adjusting your charge level based on the day's work is key. Some days, you might not need to charge fully, saving time and money.
Conclusion
If you're using your Tesla Model Y for ridesharing, the sweet spot for charging seems to be around 80-90% for regular use. Reserve charging to 100% for when you truly need it, like for extended trips or days with unusually high demand. This approach helps in managing battery life, costs, and ensures you're not spending more time charging than necessary. Happy driving, and may your rides be both profitable and sustainable!
