How long do electric cars last?
Consumers are increasingly interested in electric cars and other electric vehicles (EVs), so they want to know how long a battery can last. Although battery life spans vary by manufacturer and age, you can expect new batteries to last longer than the drivetrain components of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.
The basics of EV batteries
Rechargeable lithium-ion battery power electric cars. These batteries are more efficient than internal combustion engines' lead-acid batteries or rechargeable nickel-cadmium hybrid batteries. The high energy density of a lithium-ion battery means that it can produce more power than its size, making them ideal for electric cars.
EVs can be powered solely by the battery, making them far simpler and more efficient than ICE cars. Experts believe that EVs can soon be produced at a fraction of the cost of ICE vehicles, as lithium-ion batteries are now 97% less expensive than they were 30 years ago.
How do EV batteries degrade?
EV batteries are subject to cycles, temperature and time. The longevity of EV batteries is directly affected by their storage and operating conditions. In general, warmer temperatures can have a negative impact on the battery's lifespan.
The battery gradually loses its maximum potential as it goes through various charge cycles, including being charged while driving and then being discharged again while plugged back in. But, just because you don't use or charge your EV battery doesn't mean it will last forever. Calendar degradation refers to the battery gradually losing its life.
Complex battery management systems (BMSs) regulate how EV batteries are charged and discharged. This contrasts with the standard lithium-ion batteries found in phones or laptops. Your EV battery will most likely experience temperature and calendar degradation.
How long does an electric car battery last?
The question is: How long do you expect your EV batteries to last? Consumers have the advantage of EV manufacturers being required to warrant batteries for 8 years or 100,000 miles. However, it extends this warranty to 10 years or 150,000 miles.
Companies can now produce larger batteries with more significant energy potential and are cheaper to make, increasing their range. The improved technology also reduces battery degradation, which means that the maximum potential of the battery will remain close to the original.
Newer batteries have a much longer range of mileage than older batteries, so even if they start to degrade, they will continue to provide a more excellent range of mileage than those available just a few years ago. Because lithium-ion batteries are composed of many cells, replacing every cell as it deteriorates is not necessary. You can save money by replacing dead cells.
The Second Life of an EV Battery
The best thing about EV battery degradation is that they can still be used for a sustainable purpose even after they are removed from your EV. These powerful EV batteries can still be used to provide energy for your home, even though they are less efficient in powering a car (usually at 70% of their maximum charge potential). Manufacturers often buy back or collect used batteries from other projects . You can be confident that your EV's energy will continue to power your home long after your vehicle has left.
The cost of EV batteries continues to drop; they travel farther on a single charge and last longer. Experts believe EV batteries will last longer than ICE components, and technology is improving yearly. All the good news is that your EV battery can be used to power your vehicle for many years.