A recent analysis of over 7,000 electric vehicles has debunked concerns about rapid battery deterioration, revealing that batteries retain strong performance even after 200,000 kilometers of use.
The longevity of EV batteries has been a critical issue in the transition to sustainable mobility. A study conducted by consultancy firm P3, in collaboration with startup Aviloo, examined extensive data from thousands of EVs. The findings suggest that battery degradation is significantly slower than initially feared.
Stable performance over high mileage
The study shows that battery capacity loss is most pronounced during the first 30,000 kilometers, with the State of Health dropping from 100% to around 95%. However, beyond this point, the rate of degradation slows considerably. On average, EV batteries maintain 90% SoH after 100,000 kilometers and stabilize at approximately 87% capacity between 200,000 and 300,000 kilometers. This performance exceeds the 70-80% threshold typically guaranteed by manufacturers.
The data highlights the impressive reliability of EV batteries, even under intensive usage and varying driving conditions. Nearly all vehicles in the analyzed fleet retained over 90% capacity, showcasing their resilience.
It’s worth noting, however, that data for vehicles exceeding 200,000 kilometers is relatively limited due to the smaller number of EVs reaching such high mileage. This could slightly affect the accuracy of conclusions for ultra-long distances.
To reassure consumers, EV manufacturers typically offer warranties on batteries for up to 8 years or 160,000 kilometers, guaranteeing a residual capacity of 70-80%. During this warranty period, the condition of the battery plays a significant role in determining an EV’s residual value.
After the warranty expires, the residual value of the vehicle may decline more rapidly, as battery capacity becomes a critical factor for second-hand buyers.
Transparency to build consumer trust
The study underscores the importance of providing transparent and accurate data to address misconceptions about battery durability. According to P3, “Misinformation can hinder the acceptance of electric vehicles.” Sharing realistic performance data can build consumer confidence and accelerate the adoption of EV technology.
