The debate over how many miles is too many when it comes to buying a used car is a common one among car shoppers. However, a recent test conducted by R Symons Electric Vehicles, a U.K.-based electric vehicle dealer, has shed some light on this issue, specifically in the context of Tesla Model 3s.
In this test, R Symons Electric Vehicles pitted two Tesla Model 3s against each other in a 200-mile range and efficiency test. One Model 3 had 18,000 miles on the odometer, while the other had an impressive 225,000 miles. Despite the stark difference in mileage, both cars performed almost identically in terms of efficiency.
The results of the test are good news for EV shoppers, as they demonstrate that batteries and motors in electric vehicles tend to perform well for longer periods than most people keep their cars. The high-mileage Model 3 was just as efficient as the low-mileage one, returning 4.51 miles per kilowatt-hour compared to 4.55 miles per kWh for the low-mileage example. This negligible difference could be attributed to the newer, grippier tires on the high-mileage car.
Furthermore, both vehicles used 65% of their battery over the 200-mile test, indicating that the high-mileage Model 3 still retains a significant portion of its original battery capacity. In fact, the 225,000-mile car has retained 89% of its original battery capacity, demonstrating that it can still handle long trips with plenty of range to spare.
This test highlights the longevity and durability of electric powertrains compared to traditional internal combustion engines. While gasoline engines tend to lose efficiency over time and require more maintenance, electric powertrains are simpler and more reliable. The high-mileage Model 3 used in the test is still running on its original motor and battery pack, showcasing the potential for a bright electric future.
The only long-term downside to EV ownership is the concern over battery degradation. However, as this test and other data have shown, battery degradation is not a significant issue for the majority of EV owners. With electric vehicles proving to be reliable and efficient even at high mileages, the future looks promising for those considering making the switch to electric transportation. Whether you drive 250,000 miles in your new electric vehicle (EV) or barely put 10,000 miles on it over the course of 10 years, the battery should hold up just fine. This is a common concern for potential EV buyers, as the longevity and durability of the battery pack is a key factor in determining the overall cost of ownership.
One of the biggest advantages of EVs is that they require less maintenance compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. With fewer moving parts and no need for oil changes, EVs are generally more reliable and cost-effective to maintain. The battery pack is often the most expensive component of an EV, so it’s natural for owners to wonder about its lifespan and performance over time.
Fortunately, advancements in battery technology have made EV batteries more durable and long-lasting than ever before. Most modern EVs come with a warranty that guarantees a certain level of battery performance over a specified number of years or miles. For example, Tesla offers an 8-year/150,000-mile warranty on the Model 3’s battery pack, ensuring that it will retain a certain level of capacity over that period.
In real-world driving conditions, EV batteries have been shown to hold up well even after hundreds of thousands of miles. A recent study by the International Council on Clean Transportation found that the average range loss for EVs after 200,000 miles was only about 10%. This means that even after extensive use, the battery pack should still have plenty of capacity left to provide a reasonable driving range.
Factors such as driving habits, climate, and charging practices can all impact the lifespan and performance of an EV battery. By following best practices such as avoiding deep discharges, not letting the battery sit at a high state of charge for extended periods, and keeping it within a moderate temperature range, owners can help prolong the life of their EV battery.
Overall, the future looks bright for EV batteries. As technology continues to improve and costs come down, EVs are becoming an increasingly viable option for drivers looking to reduce their carbon footprint and save money on fuel and maintenance costs. Whether you plan to drive your EV for 250,000 miles or just a fraction of that, the battery should be up to the task.
For more information on EV battery performance and longevity, feel free to contact the author at Mack.Hogan@insideevs.com.