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Short answer: No, not when the device comes from a trusted provider and is installed correctly. In the fleet and transport industry, electric vehicles, or EVs, introduce a new set of expectations and questions. One of the most common concerns we hear is whether GPS tracking devices cause EV 12V battery drain in electric or hybrid vehicles.
At GSFleet, we take those concerns about EV 12V battery drain seriously. We test our hardware, validate power consumption data and work closely with customers and installation partners to ensure tracking devices perform as intended.
What our tests show
GSFleet telematics devices are designed to reduce power consumption when the vehicle is parked. Testing confirms:
- After the ignition is turned off, the unit operates in an “active mode” for a limited period.
- After that, the unit enters sleep mode, reducing power usage to extremely low levels.
In one internal test where a tracking device was suspected of draining the battery in a plug-in hybrid, the telematics unit was measured to draw only a fraction of what would be required to significantly discharge the battery. During further investigation, the vehicle itself showed an unexpected, large power draw coming from internal systems – far beyond the capacity of the telematics device. This further confirmed that EV 12V battery drain was not due to our device.
The conclusion from our testing was clear:
The battery drain was caused by the vehicle’s own systems, not the tracking device.
Why EVs behave differently
Electric and hybrid vehicles rely on a smaller 12V battery than traditional combustion vehicles. Even when the car is parked, internal systems remain partially active. Examples include:
- Keyless entry and proximity detection
- App-controlled preheating and remote climate control
- Alarm systems
- Built-in OEM telematics and connectivity services
These systems periodically wake up and consume battery. In cold climates or when vehicles stand unused for several days, the 12V battery can discharge faster than expected – regardless of whether a GPS tracker is installed.
Concerns about EV 12V battery drain are thus understandable. This is why some EV and hybrid manufacturers have issued internal notes and service guidance regarding 12V battery behavior. It is a known characteristic of modern electrified vehicles.
Installation matters
GSFleet telematics units are engineered to enter sleep mode automatically.
However, if a device is connected to constant power instead of the correct ignition signal, the unit may never enter sleep mode.
To ensure correct performance and avoid EV 12V battery drain:
- Installers are responsible for following GSFleet’s installation instructions.
- All device-related questions should be directed to GSFleet Support, not the installer.
When the device is installed correctly, power consumption remains extremely low.
Best practice for fleet owners
Electric vehicles, especially those that stand still for longer periods, benefit from periodic maintenance charging of the 12V battery. This applies to all EVs – with or without telematics. Regular checks can prevent unexpected EV 12V battery drain.
If a vehicle is used infrequently, only for short trips, or parked for long periods, the 12V system may not have time to fully recharge. Maintenance charging is recommended by several industry sources and aligns with best practices for EV ownership.
What to do if you suspect battery drain
If there are signs of unexpected battery discharge in a vehicle equipped with telematics, we recommend collecting the following information:
- Vehicle brand and model
- How long the vehicle typically stands parked
GSFleet can analyze configuration settings, review device logs, and if necessary apply an even more aggressive low-power configuration.
Our goal is to make sure your fleet runs reliably, without assumptions or uncertainty. Ensuring that EV 12V battery drain concerns are addressed is a crucial part of this task.
For further or other assistance, please contact GSFleet Support.
