A comprehensive study by Recurrent Motors Inc., based on data from 15,000 electric vehicles (EVs) in the US, reveals surprisingly high durability of EV batteries, with most retaining 90% of their original range after 160,000 kilometers. While the cost of EV battery replacements can be significant, only 1.5% of cars had their batteries replaced, easing concerns over battery longevity. The findings, which highlight the potential for EV batteries to outlast their vehicles, are expected to encourage adoption of EVs, including used ones. This research, coupled with other studies and real-world data, points to a much longer lifespan for EV batteries than previously believed.
- EV batteries retain 90% capacity after 160,000 km, revealing high durability.
- Protection systems and heat management enable EV batteries to outperform expectations.
- With proper usage, EV batteries can last 15-20 years, potentially outliving the vehicles
Lifespan of EV batteries: More than meets the eye
Contrary to popular belief, batteries in electric vehicles (EVs) are not the same as those found in phones or other small electronic devices. Despite being based on similar lithium-ion chemistry, the design, usage, and management of these batteries differ significantly, leading to a markedly extended lifespan in EVs.
EV batteries contain built-in protection mechanisms to prevent degradation. They are designed to be more resilient and operate within a certain temperature range for optimum performance. Heat management systems are incorporated in EVs to maintain the batteries within this range, preventing overheating and premature wear.
Real-world performance and best practices
Studies on older models like the Nissan LEAF and Tesla Model S have shown that EV batteries can outlast expectations. For example, Tesla confidently states that, on average, its batteries degrade by only 12% after approximately 320,000 kilometres of usage. This data from real-world observations demonstrates that EV batteries are more durable than previously thought, with many retaining around 90% of their capacity even after 320,000 kilometres.
Best practices to protect battery health include avoiding excessive heat and managing the depth of discharge. It is recommended to keep a battery charge between 20% and 80% to extend its lifespan. Charging an EV battery to around 80-85% is considered optimal, while letting the battery go down to zero percent is not advised.
Longevity, cost, and sustainability
The average loss in battery capacity for EVs is around 2.3% per year. Given this, the lifespan of an EV battery can be projected to last between 15 to 20 years or approximately between 160,000 and 320,000 kilometres. With the average lifespan of a car being roughly 12 years, it is evident that EV batteries have the potential to outlive the vehicles they power.
However, the cost of EV battery replacements is currently high, ranging around $10,000 to $12,000. But this is expected to decrease in the future as technology advances and economies of scale kick in. Furthermore, after their useful life in EVs, batteries can be repurposed for electricity storage or recycled to recover up to 95% of raw materials.
The durability of EV batteries, coupled with responsible usage and maintenance, makes them cost-effective and sustainable. This is not only beneficial for EV owners but also contributes towards reducing environmental pollution and promoting a sustainable future.
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