EV Myth: EV Batteries Don't Last

March 17, 2024

One of the most common misconceptions surrounding electric vehicles (EVs) is the belief that their batteries don’t last. However, this notion couldn’t be further from the truth.

Contrary to popular belief, the lithium-ion batteries used in EVs differ significantly from those in everyday devices like smartphones. In fact, most car manufacturers now offer impressive eight-year, 100,000-mile battery warranties on EVs, surpassing the coverage typically provided for internal combustion engine vehicles.

Recent studies further reinforce the durability of EV batteries. A comprehensive analysis conducted by Seattle-based battery experts, Recurrent Motors, revealed that a mere 1.5% of EV batteries studied had required replacement under warranty. Additionally, Tesla’s Impact Report for 2022 showcased that the battery degradation on their older S and X models, even after 200,000 miles, was a just 12%.

Real-world examples also speak volumes about the longevity of EV batteries. Cleevely EV Mobile, an esteemed electric car repairer in the UK, frequently showcases high-mileage EVs on their social media platforms. Remarkably, vehicles like the Tesla Model 3 taxi with 300,000 miles and a Model S with 290,000 miles still boast over 80% battery capacity.

Importantly, there is currently no data available to indicate persistent, premature, or unexpected failures of EV batteries. Industry experts widely acknowledge that EV batteries typically outlast the chassis of the vehicle itself. And when an EV battery does reach the end of its usefulness in the vehicle, it can be repurposed or recycled.

EV battery warranties and exclusions – Green Car

Replacing the battery packs in today’s electric vehicles can be expensive. Luckily, the batteries in EVs are built to outlast the cars they are in. Still, car manufacturers have stepped up with excellent warranties on EV batteries. Green Car explains what you need to know.

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How long do EV batteries last – Recurrent Motors

How long is that EV battery going to last? We don’t know for sure because electric cars have not been around long enough for us to tell, but we do know from current data that battery replacements are quite rare. From 15,000 cars studied, only 1.5% have had batteries replaced and most replacements occurred under warranty.

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After 200,000 miles of usage, Tesla batteries lose just 12% of their capacity – Tesla

In Tesla’s 2022 impact report (Page 39) their analysis finds that even after 200,000 miles, the batteries in Model S and X vehicles have degraded just 12%.

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Tesla taxi driver has battery replaced after 666,666km (414,247 miles) – The Driven

An Australian Tesla taxi has just surpassed the 700,000km (434,960 miles) point. Its battery was replaced at 666,666km (414,247 miles) which was offered as a direct replacement under warranty, or as an upgrade at an additional cost.

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Electric car batteries lasting longer than predicted is delaying recycling programs – Forbes

The worry was once what the world would do with millions of spent electric vehicle batteries after they no longer powered the cars and vans they propelled. But this glut of EV batteries has not yet materialised – Nissan has been making the electric Leaf since 2010 – and automotive industry initiatives to recycle the lithium-ion cells bundled in EV batteries are slow to go mainstream in Europe and the U.S.

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