A recent study conducted by Geotab has shed light on the impressive longevity of modern high-voltage batteries in electric vehicles (EVs). The study, which analyzed data from nearly 5,000 EVs, revealed that these batteries can last for years with minimal degradation. In fact, the degradation rate has decreased by almost a quarter compared to 2019.
According to David Savage, Vice President for the UK and Ireland at Geotab, the batteries in the latest EV models will likely outlast the usable life of the vehicle and may not need to be replaced. The study found that the average annual degradation rate of modern electric vehicle batteries is just 1.8%, a significant improvement from previous years. The top-performing vehicles have a battery degradation rate of just 1% per year.
Savage emphasized that battery reliability is often used as a criticism of EVs, but data like this can dispel those myths. A 1.8% annual degradation rate means that after 20 years, an EV battery would still have 64% of its original capacity. This translates to a substantial range that would still be sufficient for daily driving needs.
The study also revealed that highly used EVs do not show increased battery degradation rates, indicating that more value can be derived from these vehicles with increased usage. Interestingly, the rate at which modern EV batteries degrade is lower than that of internal combustion vehicle drivetrain components.
Temperature plays a significant role in battery health, with actively cooled battery packs showing lower degradation rates compared to air-cooled systems. Maintaining the state of charge between 20% and 80% is ideal for prolonging the life of the battery pack.
While battery degradation is inevitable, simple habits such as parking in the shade and avoiding extreme states of charge can help extend the life of EV batteries. Other studies have shown that DC fast charging has less impact on battery life than previously thought, and continuously charging certain battery types to 100% can be detrimental to their health.
In conclusion, the study by Geotab highlights the impressive durability of modern EV batteries and debunks common misconceptions about their longevity. By following best practices for battery maintenance, EV owners can maximize the lifespan of their vehicle’s most valuable component.