Electric vehicles present a storage challenge that most traditional car storage facilities aren’t designed to handle. The battery management requirements, charging protocols, and software considerations that apply to a stored EV are fundamentally different from those of a petrol or diesel car. As the number of high-value EVs on the road grows — Teslas, Porsches, Rimacs, Lucids — the question of how to store them correctly is becoming more relevant. At Prestige Car Storage in Ongar, Essex, we’re increasingly being asked about EV storage, and this guide covers what owners need to know before committing their vehicle to any facility.
Table of Contents
Why EV Storage Is Different
The core challenge with storing an electric vehicle is the battery. Unlike a petrol engine, which can sit largely dormant during storage with only basic precautions required, an EV battery is an active system that requires careful management throughout any storage period.
Battery self-discharge: Even when switched off, EVs draw a small amount of power from the main battery pack for systems management, thermal regulation, and software functions. Over weeks and months, this passive drain can reduce the battery’s state of charge to levels that cause lasting damage.
Optimal storage charge level: Most manufacturers recommend storing an EV at between 20% and 80% state of charge. Storing at full charge (100%) for extended periods accelerates battery degradation. Storing at very low charge (below 10-15%) risks deep discharge, which can permanently reduce range and in some cases render the battery unusable.
Temperature sensitivity: EV battery packs perform best within a defined temperature range. Extreme cold or heat during storage affects both the chemistry of the battery and the accuracy of the battery management system. Heated, climate-controlled storage is important — not just for the interior and bodywork, but for the battery pack itself.
Software updates: Some EVs (Tesla in particular) will continue to receive over-the-air software updates during storage if connected to wifi. This is generally positive, but it does mean the vehicle is drawing power during this process. Facilities need to be aware of this when managing charge levels.
What to Look for in EV-Ready Storage
Not all car storage facilities can handle EVs properly. When evaluating a provider, ask specifically:
- Do they have the ability to manage battery charge levels during storage — either through scheduled charging or monitoring?
- Is the facility temperature-controlled to avoid the extremes that damage battery chemistry?
- Are staff familiar with the specific requirements of your vehicle’s make and model?
- Do they have the appropriate charging equipment, and is it compatible with your vehicle?
- Can they monitor the vehicle’s state of charge remotely and take action if levels drop?
At Prestige Car Storage, we discuss EV storage requirements on a model-by-model basis. The needs of a Tesla Model S differ from those of a Porsche Taycan or a Rivian, and we approach each accordingly rather than applying a blanket protocol.
EV Storage in Practice: What We Recommend
For owners preparing to put an EV into storage, the following steps represent best practice regardless of the facility you choose:
Set the charge limit before storage. Use your vehicle’s app or onboard settings to cap charging at 80% and allow the battery to discharge slightly if it’s currently at a higher level before handover.
Disable unnecessary background processes. Where your vehicle allows it, put it into a deep sleep or storage mode. This reduces the passive energy drain that occurs when systems remain active.
Notify your storage provider of any software update schedules. Some manufacturers push large updates during extended periods — knowing when these are likely means your provider can ensure the vehicle has adequate charge available.
Document the state of charge at handover. Make a note of the charge level, battery health percentage (if your vehicle displays this), and any relevant dashboard readings. This creates a baseline for comparison when you collect.
Plan for a full systems check before returning to the road. After extended storage, allow the vehicle to warm up to operating temperature before driving. Check tyre pressures, inspect brakes visually, and allow the battery management system to recalibrate over the first few charge cycles.
Costs for EV Storage in Essex
EV storage at a specialist facility in Essex typically commands the same rates as prestige petrol storage — from £230 + VAT per month at our Ongar facility. The additional management requirements of an EV don’t necessarily translate into significantly higher costs, but it’s worth discussing the specifics of your vehicle with any provider before committing.
If you’re a London-based EV owner, our concierge service can collect and return your vehicle, making the distance to Essex irrelevant. We’re happy to discuss the specific requirements of your car before you decide. Enquire now or view our pricing page.
