10 Must-Have Electric Vehicle Gadgets & Power Essentials
Before we dive in, a quick note! You might have landed here searching for “best energy supplier for electric car” – which typically refers to utility companies or specialized EV charging networks. While this article doesn’t review those service providers, it does focus on a range of handy gadgets and power solutions that can significantly enhance your electric vehicle experience, whether you drive a modern EV, a classic electric golf cart, or even want robust portable power for your adventures! We’ve gathered some top picks for keeping your electric rides and auxiliary systems powered up and ready to roll.
Owning an electric vehicle (EV) brings a new kind of freedom, but like any vehicle, it requires the right gear to keep things running smoothly. From unexpected flat tires to needing extra juice on the go, having reliable accessories can make all the difference. This list focuses on diverse electric vehicle power solutions and accessories that can make your life easier, more convenient, and even more fun. Let’s explore these must-have items that deliver practical benefits for any electric vehicle enthusiast.
1. Dual-Power Cordless Tire Inflator Portable Air Compressor
This cordless tire inflator is a true lifesaver for any vehicle owner, especially those with EVs who might want to handle minor maintenance themselves. What makes it stand out is its dual-power capability, meaning it can run on its built-in battery for ultimate portability or plug into your car’s 12V adapter for continuous power. It’s super smart too, with a color-coded LED strip that visually tells you your tire pressure status and the ability to auto-stop once your preset pressure is reached. Talk about peace of mind on the road!
Key Features:
– Colorful LED pressure perception strip for instant status checks.
– Automatic stop function when preset pressure is reached.
– Ideal for cars, motorcycles, bicycles, sports balls, and other inflatables.
– One-click preset for Car/SUV tire pressure, adjusting for ambient temperature.
– Equipped with emergency 12V port for car power adapter use if the battery is low.
Pros:
– Highly portable with cordless operation.
– Dual power source offers versatility.
– Intuitive pressure display and automatic shut-off.
– Multi-purpose use beyond just car tires.
– Built-in power indicator for battery status.
Cons:
– May be slower than professional garage inflators for large tires.
– Battery life might vary based on inflation demand.
User Impressions:
Users frequently praise this inflator for its convenience and accuracy, often highlighting the “set it and forget it” auto-stop feature. Many appreciate its compact size for easy storage in the trunk, making it an excellent electric vehicle power solution for emergency tire top-ups.
2. Yourkar Car Cigarette Lighter Socket, Waterproof Cigarette
While many modern EVs boast USB-C ports, the classic 12V cigarette lighter socket is still incredibly useful for powering a wide array of accessories, from tire inflators to portable vacuums. This Yourkar socket is built tough with durable materials, ensuring it stands up to daily wear and tear. Its thoughtful waterproof and dustproof design means it’s ready for various conditions, making it a reliable electric vehicle accessory for any adventure. Installation is a breeze, and its universal fit means it’s compatible with almost any 12V-24V vehicle.
Key Features:
– Practical function for lighting cigarettes or powering 12V accessories.
– Durable construction with sturdy iron shell, ABS plastic cover, and good conductivity copper wire.
– Openable cover provides protection from dust and water.
– Comes with a wiring harness tail plug for safer, direct plug-in installation.
– Universal fit for cars, boats, trucks, and motorcycles.
Pros:
– Robust and long-lasting build quality.
– Dust and waterproof design enhances durability.
– Easy to install with clear instructions.
– Versatile for a wide range of 12V-24V applications.
– Essential for older accessories or those requiring higher 12V current.
Cons:
– Requires basic wiring knowledge for installation.
– May not be needed if your EV has ample built-in power outlets.
User Impressions:
Customers love this socket for its reliable performance and sturdy build. Many find it indispensable for powering camping gear or other road trip essentials, calling it a vital upgrade for older vehicles or for adding extra utility to any modern ride.
3. MINIATURE MOTORS 12V 7Ah Kids Electric Ride on Car
For the mini EV enthusiast in your family, this 12V 7Ah rechargeable battery from Miniature Motors is the heart of their electric ride-on car. It ensures hours of non-stop playtime, bringing endless joy to kids while offering parents peace of mind with robust safety features like parental remote control and a slow-start function. This isn’t just about fun; it’s about reliable power for miniature electric vehicles, allowing for smooth outdoor adventures and even built-in music and stories!
Key Features:
– Powered by a 12V 7Ah rechargeable battery and 12V twin motors for 60-80 minutes playtime.
– Parental remote control for emergency stops or full control for younger kids.
– Multimedia functions: Wireless music, USB port, built-in music/story, battery indicator.
– Realistic design with openable doors, headlights, light-up panel, and small trunk.
– Safety-first features: seat belt, 4-wheel full suspension, and slow start technology.
Pros:
– Long playtime for extended fun.
– Dual control (manual and remote) offers flexibility.
– Engaging multimedia features keep kids entertained.
– Realistic design enhances play experience.
– Strong safety certifications and features.
Cons:
– Requires assembly.
– Max speed of 3 mph might be slow for older kids.
User Impressions:
Parents consistently praise the long battery life and the robust safety features, especially the parental remote control. They highlight how much their children enjoy the realistic touches and the built-in music, making it a fantastic “first electric car” experience.
4. Drive-up Club Car DS LED Headlight Kit, 12V Factory Style
For golf cart owners looking to upgrade their ride, this Drive-up LED headlight kit is a game-changer. Specifically designed for 1993-up Club Car DS models, these LED lights aren’t just brighter; they’re significantly more energy-efficient than traditional bulbs. This means less drain on your golf cart battery, extending its lifespan and giving you more time on the course or path. It’s a smart electric vehicle power solution for better visibility and battery management.
Key Features:
– Compatible with 1993-up Club Car DS gas and electric golf carts.
– Replaces OEM Part Numbers 101988002 (Left) and 101988001 (Right).
– LED technology offers longer lifespan and reduced energy consumption.
– Operates on 12V; requires a voltage reducer for 36V or 48V systems (not included).
– Package includes 2 LED headlights, 2 adapter wire harnesses, and cutting templates.
Pros:
– Enhanced brightness for improved visibility.
– Energy-efficient LEDs extend battery life.
– Direct replacement for easy installation (with voltage reducer if needed).
– Durable illumination for various needs.
Cons:
– Voltage reducer is required for 36V/48V golf carts and sold separately.
– For illumination only; doesn’t include high/low beam functionality.
User Impressions:
Golf cart enthusiasts often comment on the dramatic improvement in visibility and the noticeable reduction in battery drain after installing these LED headlights. The factory-style fit is also a big plus, making the upgrade feel seamless.
5. 12V Battery Meter Lead-Acid Battery Indicator for
Keeping tabs on your 12V auxiliary battery’s health is crucial for any vehicle, including an EV. This compact 12V battery meter is incredibly handy for quickly checking the charge level of lead-acid batteries in motorcycles, golf carts, cars, or marine applications. Its smart design includes an automatic sleep mode to save energy and a clear 5-segment LED indicator to give you an at-a-glance understanding of your battery’s capacity, making it a simple yet effective electric vehicle accessory for power monitoring.
Key Features:
– Mini-sized 12V portable battery meter.
– Compatible with general 12V lead-acid storage batteries.
– Automatic sleep mode after 30 seconds of inactivity to save energy.
– 5-segment LED indicator with 10% capacity resolution.
– Suitable for motorcycles, golf carts, cars, marine, ATVs, and all 12V lead-acid batteries.
Pros:
– Compact and easy to install/monitor.
– Clear and intuitive LED display.
– Energy-saving automatic sleep function.
– Wide compatibility with various 12V systems.
– Helps prevent unexpected battery drain.
Cons:
– Not suitable for lithium-ion batteries.
– Not recommended for use during charging conditions.
User Impressions:
Users appreciate the simplicity and accuracy of this battery meter for their various 12V applications. They find it particularly useful for older vehicles or backup power systems, providing peace of mind by clearly indicating remaining battery life.
6. CHANCS TYC-40 110V AC Small Gear Synchro Motor 5/6RPM
While not a direct electric vehicle power solution for propulsion, this small AC synchronous motor is a versatile component for various home and DIY electric projects that might interest the technically inclined EV owner. Its low power consumption, quiet operation, and compact size make it ideal for anything from Christmas decorations to small appliances and automatic display systems. It’s a reliable little workhorse for those who love tinkering with small electrical setups.
Key Features:
– TYC-40 AC 110V 5RPM CW/CCW synchronous motor.
– Features small power consumption, low noise, small size, and light weight.
– Reduction gear combines metal/plastic for continuous and quiet operation.
– Torque of ≤0.5kg*cm and frequency of 50/60Hz.
– Widely used in Christmas trees, decorative lights, heaters, microwave ovens, and more.
Pros:
– Energy-efficient and quiet operation.
– Compact and easy to integrate into small projects.
– Durable gear combination ensures longevity.
– Versatile for a wide range of household and DIY applications.
Cons:
– Not directly related to main EV functions (e.g., charging, propulsion).
– Requires AC 110V power; unsuitable for DC vehicle systems without an inverter.
User Impressions:
Hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts commend this motor for its consistent performance and reliability in various small-scale projects. They appreciate its quiet operation and the fact that it comes pre-tested, saving them hassle.
7. Drive-up Golf Cart LED Headlight, 12V Head Light with
Another excellent upgrade for your electric golf cart, this Drive-up LED Headlight is specifically designed for 2004-up Club Car Precedent electric golf carts. With 20W and 1400 lumens, it provides significantly brighter and more efficient illumination compared to standard bulbs. This means not only better visibility on the paths, but also less strain on your golf cart’s battery, contributing to a longer lifespan. It’s a key electric vehicle accessory for those who use their golf carts after dusk.
Key Features:
– Compatible with 2004-up Club Car Precedent electric golf carts.
– 12V operating voltage; requires a voltage reducer for 36V/48V systems (not included).
– Energy-efficient 20W LED light with 1400 lumens.
– LED lights offer longer lifespan and immediate brightness without preheating.
– Replaces OEM # 102524801, 10255248-01.
Pros:
– Significantly brighter illumination for night driving.
– Reduces energy consumption, extending golf cart battery life.
– Durable LED technology for long-lasting use.
– Easy to install (assuming voltage reducer is handled).
Cons:
– Voltage reducer needed for 36V/48V golf carts (sold separately).
– Turn signal functionality may require an additional deluxe harness.
User Impressions:
Users rave about the improved visibility these headlights offer, especially for evening rides. They frequently note the noticeable difference in brightness and appreciate the energy savings that come with LED technology, making it a highly recommended golf cart upgrade.
8. Unlimited DIY Expansion12V50Ah Winston Battery Lithium ion
For those who crave ultimate power flexibility, especially for off-grid setups, solar power systems, or RVs, this 12V 50Ah LiFeYPO₄ battery pack is a fantastic electric vehicle power solution from a DIY perspective. Built with high-quality Winston cells, it offers superior stability and a longer lifespan than traditional LiFePO₄ batteries, thanks to yttrium enhancement. Its modular design allows for easy capacity expansion by simply adding more units in parallel, making it incredibly scalable for evolving power needs – a real “bang for your buck” for custom energy storage.
Key Features:
– Modular flexibility with 4-cell design for easy parallel expansion.
– Advanced LiFeYPO₄ chemistry with yttrium for superior stability and longer life.
– Ideal for solar, off-grid, RV, and trailer power systems.
– Lightweight and more compact than equivalent lead-acid batteries.
– Trusted quality with high ratings for reliability and environmental safety.
Pros:
– Highly expandable for growing power demands.
– Excellent thermal resistance and long cycle life.
– Lighter and more compact than lead-acid alternatives.
– Environmentally friendly materials.
– Perfect for custom, high-output energy systems.
Cons:
– Requires DIY knowledge for integration into systems.
– Higher initial cost compared to some lead-acid options.
User Impressions:
DIY enthusiasts and off-grid users consistently praise these Winston battery cells for their reliability, high performance, and impressive longevity. Many highlight the ease of expanding their power systems by adding more packs, making it a flexible and future-proof choice for robust energy storage.
9. Drive-up Golf Cart LED Light Kit for Club Car Precedent
Round out your electric golf cart’s lighting system with this comprehensive LED light kit from Drive-up, designed for Club Car Precedent electric models (2004 – 2008.5). This kit includes both LED headlights and taillights, providing complete, energy-efficient illumination for safer driving in any condition. Beyond just brightness, these LEDs offer improved penetration and reduce battery drain, ensuring a longer-lasting charge for your golf cart – a total package for an enhanced electric vehicle experience.
Key Features:
– Compatible with 2004-2008.5 Club Car Precedent electric models.
– 12V operating voltage; requires a voltage reducer for 36V/48V systems (if applicable).
– Advantages of LED lights: high penetration, sufficient brightness, energy-saving, long-lasting.
– Replaces OEM Part Numbers 102524801 (headlight) and 1025290-01/1025289-01 (taillights).
– Package includes headlight, taillights, wiring harnesses, screws, and instructions.
Pros:
– Full lighting upgrade (headlights and taillights).
– Enhanced visibility for night and low-light conditions.
– Energy-efficient LEDs extend battery charge.
– Easy to install with included components.
– Direct OEM fit for a seamless look.
Cons:
– May require a voltage reducer for higher voltage golf carts.
– Newer Precedent models (after May 2008) may need a separate wiring harness.
User Impressions:
Golf cart owners are extremely pleased with the brightness and completeness of this kit. They often mention feeling much safer driving at dusk or night, and appreciate that the LEDs don’t significantly impact their battery life.
10. Long Cycle 3.2V 100Ah LiFePO4 Battery Cell Suppliers Power
For advanced DIY enthusiasts looking to build custom high-capacity power banks or even small electric vehicle battery systems, these 3.2V 100Ah LiFePO4 battery cells are the building blocks. LiFePO4 chemistry is celebrated for its long cycle life, high safety, and stable performance, making these cells ideal for creating robust, long-lasting energy storage solutions. Whether you’re powering a tiny house, a portable charging station, or experimenting with off-grid EV charging, these cells offer a reliable foundation.
Key Features:
– High-capacity 3.2V 100Ah LiFePO4 battery cells.
– Known for long cycle life (thousands of cycles).
– Excellent safety characteristics (thermal stability, no thermal runaway).
– Stable discharge voltage for consistent power delivery.
– Ideal for DIY energy storage systems, solar applications, and custom battery packs.
Pros:
– Exceptionally long lifespan for repeated charging and discharging.
– High safety profile reduces risks compared to other chemistries.
– Provides reliable and consistent power.
– Perfect for scalable, custom power solutions.
– Environmentally friendly without toxic heavy metals.
Cons:
– Requires significant technical knowledge for assembly into a battery pack.
– Balance management system (BMS) and protective casing sold separately.
User Impressions:
Experienced DIYers praise these cells for their robust performance and longevity, often using them to build powerful off-grid systems or even power small electric vehicles like e-bikes or scooters. They highlight the LiFePO4 safety and the satisfaction of building their own customized electric vehicle power solutions.
FAQ Section
Q1: Why are “energy suppliers” not reviewed in an article about “best energy supplier for electric car”?
A1: The initial keyword “best energy supplier for electric car” typically refers to utility companies or specialized EV charging network providers. However, the products provided for review were physical accessories and batteries, not service providers. This article therefore pivoted to review useful gadgets and power solutions for electric vehicles (including cars, golf carts, and DIY projects) that enhance the EV ownership experience, rather than comparing charging service companies.
Q2: Are these products suitable for all types of electric vehicles?
A2: Many products, like the tire inflator and 12V cigarette lighter socket, are universal car accessories beneficial for any electric car. Others are specifically for electric golf carts (headlights, light kits). The large battery cells are for DIY power solutions that could be used with EVs or general energy storage. Always check product compatibility with your specific vehicle model before purchasing.
Q3: What’s the most important accessory for a new EV owner?
A3: While preferences vary, a reliable portable tire inflator (like the one reviewed) and a robust 12V cigarette lighter socket (if your EV needs more 12V power options) are excellent starting points for practical on-the-go needs. Beyond that, consider items that enhance your charging convenience or emergency preparedness.
Q4: Do electric cars need 12V batteries like gasoline cars?
A4: Yes, most electric cars still have a separate 12V battery (usually lead-acid or sometimes lithium-ion) to power auxiliary systems like lights, infotainment, windows, and safety features. This 12V battery is charged by the main high-voltage EV battery through a DC-DC converter. Accessories like the 12V battery meter are useful for monitoring this.
Q5: Can I use the LiFePO4 battery cells to power my actual electric car?
A5: While LiFePO4 cells are the same chemistry used in many modern EVs, the raw cells reviewed here are meant for DIY projects and custom battery packs, not as a direct drop-in replacement or upgrade for your EV’s primary propulsion battery. Building an EV propulsion battery requires extensive engineering knowledge, sophisticated Battery Management Systems (BMS), and safety precautions.
Q6: What is a voltage reducer and why might I need one for my golf cart?
A6: A voltage reducer (or converter) is an electronic device that steps down a higher voltage (e.g., your golf cart’s 36V or 48V main battery pack) to a lower, usable voltage (typically 12V) for accessories like headlights, taillights, or USB chargers. Golf cart accessories often operate on 12V, so if your golf cart’s main battery system is higher, you’ll need a reducer to power them safely without damaging the accessory.
Q7: How do these accessories help with “electric vehicle power solutions”?
A7: These accessories provide various power-related benefits. Some, like the portable tire inflator, help you maintain your vehicle’s efficiency (correct tire pressure saves energy). Others, like the 12V socket, allow you to power external gadgets. The LiFePO4 batteries are raw components for building custom energy storage, which can be part of broader EV charging or auxiliary power strategies. Even the golf cart lights are about efficient power use (LEDs drawing less from the battery).
