One of the advantages an EV taxi has over a petrol or diesel cab is that it needs less servicing and mechanical maintenance, which helps keep costs down.
But while the battery and electric motor are sealed, it is important that drivers carry out regular checks and upkeep to get the most out of an EV.
By keeping up to date with regular maintenance, electric car leasing site LeaseLoco says drivers can keep their EVs reliable and cost-effective as neglecting simple checks can lead to “reduced efficiency, charging problems, and expensive repairs”.
Battery life
LeaseLoco encourages taxi drivers to keep EV charge levels between 20% and 80% to avoid unnecessary wear and damage to the most expensive components.
“While fast charging is convenient, frequent use generates heat, which can degrade battery cells over time. Where possible, using a slower home or public charger can help maintain long-term efficiency.”
And, as with computers, keeping them up to date also improves performance. LeaseLoco added: “Many modern electric vehicles receive over-the-air updates that improve battery management, increase efficiency, and even extend range. While some updates install automatically, others require manual confirmation via the car’s infotainment system or mobile app. Keeping software up to date is essential for optimal performance and security.”
Drivers should also keep their charging connectors clean and try to prevent nicks and kinks damaging the cable which can affect charging.
Brakes
Leasing company Riverdale has more simple but important maintenance tips for taxi drivers. It says that as many EVs use regenerative braking systems to recharge the battery while the car is on the move, “this can mean brakes are used less than in a regular car. Conversely, this makes it more important to maintain them as they can sit idle for longer.”
It also recommends that the brake fluid and pads are regularly checked, especially if they are not being used as often.
Coolant levels
While EVs do not need coolant in the same way as vehicles with combustion engines, they do need it to maintain battery temperature. If a battery gets too hot, it can cause permanent damage or even catch fire.
Riverdale notes that while it is vital that drivers monitor the levels, EV cooling systems are often sealed and will require a qualified technician to top them up.
Tyres
Ensuring tyres are in good condition is vital to the safety of any vehicle, and with the performance of many EVs, tyres may wear out more quickly than on a petrol or diesel cab.
Riverdale points out that EVs often use low-rolling resistance tyres to increase efficiency and range which “wear out slower than ‘traditional’ car tyres but are also more expensive to replace”.
Again, for safety and peace of mind, it is worth checking tyres regularly.
Windscreen
As with non-EVs, the windscreen is extremely important for visibility and safety and must be kept in good condition, with cracks and chips being repaired as soon as possible.
Drivers of cars deemed to be in a dangerous condition – such as having a cracked or chipped windscreen – face a fine and 3 points on their licence.
The screen wash reservoir should also be checked regularly and topped up when necessary and the wipers should also be checked and cleaned.
Riverdale’s advice to taxi drivers is: “As with personal cars, it’s just as important, if not more so, to check commercial EVs regularly and ensure they receive the correct maintenance. Alongside potentially hefty repair bills, commercial EVs that are off the road mean that organisations can’t go about their business and could lose money.”
Buying an EV is a major investment and, over time, lower servicing costs help mitigate the financial outlay. Through regular upkeep, taxi drivers will get more out of their investment than an EV which is neglected and develops faults, especially with the battery or charging system.
