How Long Do Electric Car Batteries Last

As more people consider making the switch to electric vehicles (EVs), there's a common question that lingers in the minds of potential EV owners: How reliable are those batteries, and will they really save me money in the long run? In this blog, we'll take a closer look at the durability and efficiency of electric car batteries to help answer these important questions.

Electric car battery basics

Before delving into the lifespan of electric car batteries, it's essential to understand the basics of these powerhouses. EV batteries are typically lithium-ion batteries, similar to those found in laptops and smartphones. However, they are significantly larger and more complex to meet the demands of propelling a vehicle.

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EV battery packs consist of numerous individual cells, and these cells are designed to be durable and long-lasting. They work by storing electrical energy in the form of chemical reactions, allowing the vehicle to draw power when needed. These lithium-ion battery packs hold their charge better than the batteries on internal combustion engines.

Battery capacity is measured in "kWh" or kilowatt-hour. The more kWh your car has, the farther you can drive on a single charge. So, think of the kWh rating as choosing the size of your car's gas tank when picking an electric vehicle.

Electric car battery life expectancy

The longevity of an EV battery pack depends on several factors, including the type of battery, how it's used, and how well it's maintained. On average, electric car batteries are designed to last at least 100,000 miles (160,000 kilometers) or more. Some newer EV models claim a lifespan of 200,000 miles (320,000 kilometers) or even more.

It's important to note that "battery life" in this context doesn't mean that the battery suddenly dies after reaching a specific mileage. Instead, it refers to the point at which the battery's capacity has degraded to a certain level, typically around 70-80% of its original capacity. This capacity loss, known as battery degradation, is a gradual process.

EV battery degradation

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Battery degradation is the natural wear and tear that occurs over time as an electric vehicle battery is charged and discharged. Factors contributing to battery degradation include:

1. Charge and discharge cycles: Each time an electric vehicle's battery pack is charged and then discharged, it goes through a cycle. The more cycles a battery undergoes, the more it degrades. However, modern EVs are designed to have a high number of cycles before significant degradation occurs.

2. Temperature: Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can accelerate battery degradation. High temperatures can cause chemical reactions that lead to faster degradation, while cold temperatures can reduce the battery's efficiency. Electric cars in hot weather require careful management of battery temperature to mitigate these effects and ensure optimal performance and longevity.

3. Charging habits: Rapid charging, particularly at high voltages, can put more stress on the battery and lead to faster degradation. This is why many EV manufacturers recommend avoiding frequent fast charging unless necessary.

4. State of charge: Keeping the battery constantly at 100% charge or letting it run down to very low levels can also contribute to degradation. It's best to keep the battery between 20% and 80% charge for optimal longevity.

How to extend EV battery life

While electric car batteries will naturally degrade over time, there are steps you can take to extend their lifespan:

Follow EV manufacturer guidelines

Always adhere to the guidelines and recommendations provided by the EV manufacturer regarding battery maintenance and charging practices. They are designed to help you maximize the battery's lifespan.

Tesla, for instance, advises owners to keep the battery charged between 20% and 80% for daily use. They also recommend leaving the car plugged in when not in use to ensure the EV's battery remains at the optimal level of charge. Understanding and following EV battery charging best practices can significantly contribute to your battery's longevity and overall electric vehicle performance.

Maintain moderate temperatures

During hot weather, try to park your car in a shaded area or a garage. High temperatures can cause the battery to overheat and wear out faster. Some electric cars have systems to control the battery temperature, which helps protect it from excessive heat.

In cold weather, your EV's battery pack may not perform as well, leading to reduced efficiency and range. Low temperatures increase the internal resistance of lithium batteries, effectively decreasing the usable capacity. Parking in a sheltered spot, like a garage, can help maintain a better battery temperature and prevent these issues. Additionally, understanding battery cooling techniques can be beneficial for managing your electric vehicle's battery temperature.

Minimize rapid charging

Using fast-charging stations like CCS (Combined Charging System) and Superchargers can significantly reduce the time it takes to recharge your electric vehicle (EV), making long-distance travel more convenient. However, when you use rapid charging, the flow of electricity into the battery is accelerated, which can generate heat. Excessive heat can have a negative impact on the long-term health of your EV's lithium-ion battery. It can speed up the natural wear and tear process, potentially reducing the battery's overall capacity and lifespan.

Try to limit the use of rapid charging stations to situations where it's necessary for long trips. Regularly charging at slower rates is gentler on the battery.

Stay between 20 and 80 percent charge

To maintain the health of your EV's battery, it's wise to keep the state of charge (SOC) within a specific range, typically between 20% and 80%. Each time you charge and then use your EV's battery, it undergoes a charging cycle. These cycles accumulate over time and are a key factor in battery wear and tear.

SOC refers to the percentage of charge your battery currently holds. For example, if your EV is at 50% SOC, it means the battery is halfway charged. Staying within the 20% to 80% SOC range is recommended because it helps reduce the wear on your battery. Charging your EV to 100% or allowing it to drop to very low levels can lead to faster battery degradation.

Can you replace an EV battery?

Many EV manufacturers offer warranties that cover the battery for a specific number of years or miles. These warranties vary by manufacturer and may cover a certain level of capacity loss during the warranty period.

Federal regulations mandate carmakers to offer warranties that cover at least 8 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. So, you can be assured that your EV's battery is protected for an extended period, giving you added confidence in your investment.

However, in the unfortunate event that your EV battery is beyond repair or has significantly degraded and is no longer covered by the warranty, you can have it replaced. The process of replacing an EV battery involves removing the old battery pack and installing a new one. Many EV manufacturers have recycling programs in place for old electric car batteries, so you don't have to worry about them ending up in landfills. Recycling electric car batteries is an eco-friendly way to dispose of old batteries and reduce environmental impact.

How Much Does an EV Battery Replacement Cost?

The cost of replacing an EV battery can vary widely depending on the make and model of the vehicle and the capacity of the battery pack. On average, battery replacement costs can range from $5,000 to $15,000 or more. However, if your battery is still under warranty and meets the warranty criteria, the replacement cost may be covered by the manufacturer, significantly reducing the financial burden.

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