Electric vehicles (EVs) are rapidly gaining popularity, prompting potential buyers to consider various factors, including longevity. A key question for those considering the switch is: how long is a car – specifically, an electric car – expected to last, particularly its battery? While the lifespan of an EV battery varies depending on the manufacturer, usage, and environmental conditions, generally, you can anticipate that new EV batteries can rival and often surpass the lifespan of traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle components.
Understanding EV Batteries
Electric cars are powered by advanced rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. These batteries are superior to traditional lead-acid batteries found in ICE vehicles and even nickel-cadmium batteries used in some older hybrids due to their higher energy density. This high energy density means lithium-ion batteries can deliver more power relative to their size and weight, making them an ideal choice for powering electric cars.
EVs operate solely on battery power, making them inherently simpler and more efficient compared to complex ICE vehicles. As the cost of lithium-ion batteries has dramatically decreased by 97% over the past three decades, experts predict that the production costs of EVs will soon become comparable to those of ICE vehicles.
Factors Influencing EV Battery Degradation
EV battery degradation is a natural process influenced by several factors, primarily temperature, charge cycles, and time.
- Temperature: Extreme temperatures, especially heat, can negatively impact battery lifespan. Warmer climates generally accelerate battery degradation.
- Charge Cycles: Each charge cycle – the process of discharging the battery while driving and recharging it – contributes to gradual capacity loss over time.
- Calendar Degradation: Even without frequent use or charging, EV batteries experience calendar degradation, a slow decline in battery health simply due to the passage of time.
However, recent research from a two-year Stanford University study involving 92 lithium-ion batteries has revealed surprising insights. Real-world driving conditions, characterized by stop-and-go traffic and periods of rest, can actually slow down battery degradation compared to laboratory testing. The study found that batteries performed better than expected during short bursts of acceleration, challenging previous assumptions about degradation patterns.
Unlike batteries in devices like phones or laptops, EV batteries are equipped with sophisticated Battery Management Systems (BMS). These systems meticulously regulate charging and discharging processes to extend battery life. Consequently, temperature and calendar degradation are often more significant factors in EV battery longevity than charge cycle degradation under normal usage.
Expected Lifespan of an Electric Car Battery
So, how long can you realistically expect an EV battery to last, which directly relates to how long is a car viable for use? Fortunately, government regulations mandate that EV manufacturers provide battery warranties for a minimum of 8 years or 100,000 miles. California extends this warranty further to 10 years or 150,000 miles, offering even greater assurance.
The continuous advancements in battery technology are beneficial. As EV battery pack manufacturing becomes more cost-effective, manufacturers can install larger batteries with increased energy capacity, thereby extending the driving range of EVs. Furthermore, technological improvements are reducing battery degradation rates. This means that newer EV batteries retain a higher percentage of their original capacity for a longer duration. Coupled with the Stanford study’s findings, these advancements suggest that EV manufacturers could refine their BMS software to further optimize battery lifespan based on real-world driving habits.
The Stanford research also differentiates between degradation from frequent charge-discharge cycles, which is more relevant for commercial EV fleets, and degradation due to natural aging, which is more pertinent to individual EV owners primarily using their vehicles for personal commuting.
Given the increased range of modern EV batteries, even with some degradation over time, they still offer a substantial usable range compared to older EV models. Another advantage is the modular design of lithium-ion batteries. They consist of numerous individual cells, and in most cases, complete battery pack replacement is unnecessary. Instead, replacing only the degraded cells can be a more economical solution.
EV Battery Longevity vs. ICE Vehicles
Comparing EV battery warranties to traditional ICE vehicle warranties highlights the durability of EV batteries. The mandated EV battery warranty (8 years or 100,000 miles) significantly exceeds the average ICE vehicle powertrain warranty, which typically covers 5 years or 60,000 miles. The average lifespan mileage for an ICE vehicle is approximately 133,000 miles. In contrast, EV batteries degrade at an average rate of only 2.3% of their maximum capacity annually. The Stanford research even suggests that EV batteries could potentially last up to 40% longer than previously estimated. This indicates that an average EV battery could potentially last for 280,000 miles or more, which is over twice the lifespan of a typical ICE vehicle. This extended lifespan significantly enhances the value proposition of EVs.
Looking ahead, the future of EV battery longevity appears even more promising. Manufacturers like Tesla are aiming for a million-mile battery, suggesting that such technology may not be far from becoming a reality.
Maximizing EV Battery Life
While EV batteries are inherently long-lasting, EV owners can adopt certain practices to further maximize their battery lifespan and ensure their car lasts longer.
Adhere to Manufacturer Guidelines
Following the specific guidelines provided by your EV manufacturer is crucial for optimal battery performance and longevity. Different EV manufacturers employ varying battery chemistries and cooling systems, leading to unique recommendations for operation and charging procedures. Keeping your vehicle’s software updated is also important as updates often include battery management optimizations.
Maintain Moderate Temperatures
EVs equipped with liquid-cooled battery systems generally exhibit better battery life retention due to their ability to maintain lower operating temperatures. In general, parking and operating your EV in moderate temperature conditions can effectively extend battery life. Even in warmer climates, parking in garages or shaded areas can help mitigate heat exposure, as vehicles spend a significant portion of their time parked.
Limit Rapid Charging
While occasional use of direct current rapid charging (DCRC) is acceptable, minimizing its frequency can contribute to reduced battery degradation over the long term. Utilizing Level 2 charging options whenever possible is gentler on the battery. EV Connect offers a range of charging solutions to provide efficient charging options for various needs. Importantly, regular EV usage is not a significant factor in battery degradation, so don’t hesitate to drive your EV frequently.
The Second Life of EV Batteries
For environmentally conscious consumers, the potential for a “second life” for EV batteries is a significant advantage. Even after an EV battery’s capacity degrades to the point where it’s no longer optimal for vehicle propulsion (typically around 70% of its original capacity), it still retains substantial energy storage capability. These batteries can be repurposed for stationary energy storage applications, such as pairing with solar energy systems to provide backup power for homes or businesses. Some manufacturers are even回收ing or buying back used EV batteries to repurpose them for larger-scale energy storage projects, including powering facilities like sports arenas. This ensures that the sustainable benefits of EV technology extend far beyond the vehicle’s lifespan.
EV batteries are continuously improving, offering increased driving range, longer lifespans, and decreasing costs. Experts are increasingly confident that EV batteries will outlast traditional ICE vehicle components, and the technology is advancing rapidly. The outlook is positive: your EV battery is designed to serve your transportation needs for many years, and its sustainability continues even after its primary use in your vehicle.
Interested in learning more about EV charging solutions? Contact us today.
Sources
Alternative Fuels Data Center – Alternative Fuels Data Center: Maps and Data
Geotab Fleet Data – What Can 6,000 Electric Vehicles Tell Us About EV Battery Health?
New Zealand Government “Gen Less” – EV Batteries and How Far They Can Go
Union of Concerned Scientists – How Long Will My EV Battery Last? (and 3 Tips To Help It Last Longer)
