- How it works
- Auto Insurance
- Auto Refinance
- Reviews
- About
- Resources
- FAQ
How long can electric cars idle?
My old gas car could idle for a long time, I just bought an EV how long can I let that idle?
Marlee John · Answered on Apr 22, 2022
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Good question! EV motors don’t use up power while stationary so according to experts and tests, electric cars can idle for more than 24 hours.
In an article by Reuters, Oxford University engineering professor David Howey, states that EV motors don’t use power when the car is stationary. So, theoretically without climate control features the battery would still have a fairly high charge despite the car being “on”.
Journalist Alex Lauer decided to test this out after the I-95 shutdown this past winter. He idled an EV for 12 hours to see if it would last and it did, with 75% of the battery to spare. EVs make great city driving cars as zero pollution, [regenerative braking](https://getjerry.com/questions/are-minivans-good-electric-cars and power reserve motors ensure you save a lot more.
Your car insurance policy should never be idle. Let Jerry, the number one car insurance comparison app help you to find the best deals on your insurance. Jerry can even help you cancel your old plan!
View full answer
Find insurance savings (100% Free)
3.5K Ratings
WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
Browse More Content
Insurance in Your State
What Others Are Asking
Read Advice From Car Experts At Jerry
Browse By Topics
Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance
No long forms
No spam or unwanted phone calls
Quotes from top insurance companies
