Electric vehicles (EVs) have experienced a surge in popularity, driven in part by rising gasoline prices. However, as consumers consider making the switch, questions about battery longevity remain. With the battery pack being the most expensive component of an EV, sometimes costing upwards of $20,000 to replace, understanding the lifespan and care of these batteries is crucial. Here’s what you need to know about EV battery lifespan.
Understanding EV Batteries
Internal combustion engine (ICE) cars run on gasoline, while EVs are powered by a battery pack that drives one or more electric motors. EV batteries are rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, similar to those found in cell phones and other consumer electronics. Lithium-ion batteries offer a higher energy density than older lead-acid or nickel-cadmium batteries, which allows them to provide a significant amount of power without taking up much space. A vehicle’s battery capacity is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), meaning a higher kWh rating indicates a longer driving range.
How Long Do EV Batteries Last?
The lifespan of an EV battery depends on multiple factors. While battery performance can vary, EV manufacturers generally offer warranties for at least 8 years or 100,000 miles. Many manufacturers provide even longer warranties. For example, Kia offers a battery pack warranty for 10 years or 100,000 miles, and Hyundai provides a lifetime warranty on EV batteries. Battery warranties also vary in terms of coverage. Some automakers only replace a battery if it completely fails, whereas others, such as BMW, Tesla, and Volkswagen, will cover a battery if its capacity drops below a certain percentage.
Recent studies indicate that EV batteries might retain about 90% of their capacity after 100,000 kilometers and approximately 87% after 300,000 kilometers, with an annual degradation rate of around 1.8%. For example, the Tesla Model S is estimated to lose only about five percent of its battery capacity over the first 50,000 miles of use.
Battery technology is continually advancing, leading to larger batteries, increased range, and reduced degradation. The original Nissan LEAF, for instance, had a maximum range of 84 miles, while the newest LEAF boasts a range of 212 miles. Modern EV batteries are increasingly designed to last the vehicle’s entire lifespan, reducing the likelihood of battery replacement. With advancements in battery management systems and engineering, current estimates suggest an EV battery can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years, depending on how it is maintained and cared for.
How to Extend the Life of Your Electric Vehicle Battery
Much like gasoline-powered vehicles, EVs benefit from preventative maintenance to maximize the lifespan of their batteries. Here are useful charging tips to help extend the life of your EV battery:
- Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Lithium batteries have thermal management systems to regulate their temperature, but this uses energy. Parking in the shade on hot days, or indoors in extreme cold conditions, will improve battery longevity.
- Proper Charging Levels: Modern EVs have management systems that prevent charging or discharging to the maximum or minimum levels. To extend battery life, avoid charging your vehicle above 80 percent or below 20 percent.
- Minimize Fast Charging: DC fast charging stations can give your battery an 80% charge in as little as 30 minutes, but it puts a strain on the battery. Limit your use of fast charging stations, saving them for occasional use, such as on road trips.
- Maintain Optimal Charge During Storage: If you plan to store your vehicle for an extended period, ensure the battery is neither empty nor fully charged. Using a timed charger can help maintain a charge level between 25 and 75 percent.
The Second Life of EV Batteries
When an EV battery’s performance declines to below 70 percent, it can be repurposed for a “second life” before it is no longer useful for powering a vehicle. Repurposing applications include incorporation into renewable energy storage systems for homes and powering manufacturing plants. In Japan, Toyota has employed EV batteries to store power generated from solar panels.
The Bottom Line
While an electric car’s battery life can vary, recent advancements in technology have greatly improved their lifespan, often matching the vehicle’s overall durability. Limiting the number of charge cycles a battery cell goes through is a key factor in extending its life. Battery degradation is minimized when you charge your vehicle according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. For those considering a new or used EV, it’s worth exploring the over four million used electric cars, SUVs, and trucks available through specialized car search engines that provide valuable insights and tools to simplify the buying process.
