The Tesla Model Y is known for its impressive performance and long-lasting battery life. However, a recent test conducted by EV enthusiast Bjorn Nyland has revealed a surprising finding – a 2022 Tesla Model Y Long Range with just under 100,000 miles on the odometer has shown a higher-than-average battery degradation rate.
Typically, Tesla EVs with similar age and mileage experience between 5% and 7% battery degradation. In the case of this particular Model Y, the battery has degraded by 11.5%, which is significantly higher than the norm. This unexpected degradation has raised questions about the factors contributing to this decline.
One possible explanation for the excessive degradation could be fast charging habits. Some studies suggest that frequent fast charging can accelerate battery degradation, although there is no conclusive evidence to support this claim. In the case of this Model Y, approximately one-third of the charging was done at DC stalls, while the remaining two-thirds were from AC sources. Despite the mix of charging methods, the degradation rate remains notably high.
During Nyland’s testing, the Model Y struggled to accept a full 250 kilowatts when fast charging. Despite using a V4 Tesla Supercharger and preconditioning the battery, the car could barely exceed 200 kW. This limitation means that charging stops will be more frequent and time-consuming, affecting the overall driving experience.
It is important to note that all EV batteries degrade over time, but the rate of degradation is typically more pronounced in the initial years before leveling off. Many EVs can maintain over 85% battery capacity even after ten years and hundreds of thousands of miles, indicating that battery degradation is not a significant concern for most EV owners.
While the degradation rate of this particular Tesla Model Y is higher than expected, it serves as a reminder of the importance of battery care and charging habits. As EV technology continues to evolve, manufacturers and users alike will need to find a balance between performance and longevity to ensure the sustainability of electric vehicles in the long run.