Debunking EV Myths – Part 2 “EV batteries degrade very quickly”
Another weird myth persists that even though when you buy your EV with a range of lets say 400 kilometers, after 3 years that range will be down to 200 kilometers or less. This is clearly not the case.
Long-Term Studies and Real-World Data
Numerous long-term studies and real-world data from EV fleets and individual owners support the claim that degradation in EV batteries is lower than anticipated. For example, studies conducted by organizations like the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) and independent researchers have found that EV batteries typically retain over 80% of their original capacity even after several years of use.
Sources:
- ICCT Study on EV Battery Degradation – This study provides insights into the health and degradation of EV batteries over time, demonstrating their resilience and longevity.
- University of Michigan Study on EV Battery Degradation – This research paper discusses the improvement in EV battery cost and durability over time, based on long-term data analysis.
- Study on EV Battery Degradation by Nature Energy – This study published in Nature Energy presents findings on EV battery degradation rates and factors influencing battery lifespan.
Here are examples from long-term data taken from Tesla vehicles:
I myself owned a Tesla Model S for 8 years and when I sold it in 2023, it still had 90% of it’s original range. And no, the battery never had to be replaced either 😉
Here’s another example of a Tesla Models S with 200’000 kilometers driven:
| Vehicle | Initial Mileage | Final Mileage | Battery Degradation (%) | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tesla Model S | 50,000 km | 200,000 km | 5% | Bjørn Nyland, Youtube |
As mentioned in my previous post, the level of degradation as well as longevity of the battery also depends on how advanced the battery management and thermal management is. So the degradation can vary depending on how sophisiticated the following systems are:
Advanced Battery Management Systems (BMS)
Modern EVs are equipped with sophisticated BMS that actively monitor and manage the health of the battery pack. These systems optimize charging and discharging cycles, regulate temperature, and prevent overcharging or deep discharging, all of which contribute to slower battery degradation. Pionieering EVs such as the early Nissan Leaf did not have a sophisticated BMS system which resulted in a much higher level of degradation. This is most likely where this myth originated from.
So if an EV vendor tries to save costs by not investing in providing a sophisticated battery management system, the level of degradation of your battery might be higher.
Temperature Control
Temperature plays a significant role in battery degradation. EVs employ thermal management systems to maintain optimal operating temperatures for the battery pack, reducing degradation caused by extreme heat or cold.
My wifes Opel Mokka-E EV for example does not seem to either heat nor cool the battery. In the summertime with both cars standing in the garage, my Tesla Model X is actively cooling the battery while the Opel is just sitting there. I will not be surprised if the battery will show a higher degradation as time goes by compared to my Tesla Model X.
Debunking EV myths part 3: But EV batteries are so dangerous !!
