One of the primary concerns for a potential EV buyer is the longevity of the battery, which is the heart of an electric car. The internet is full of lot of misinformation on this topic.
With this article we will try to actually understand how long do EV batteries last, debunk misconceptions about EV battery life, factors that affect the life of EV battery, tips to extend its life and more.
Before we go into further details about EV battery life, and factors affecting it. We need to understand some basics about an EV battery.
An EV battery is made of numerous individual units called cells. These cells are grouped together into modules which then form a battery.
The most common type of battery used in EVs is Lithium-ion battery. The have a far higher energy density than most other types of batteries, meaning they can store more electrical energy in a given volume. Lithium bases batteries are also more efficient and require minimal maintenance.
But while lithium-ion has all these advantages, they don’t last forever. Like many other parts, batteries age with use. As they age, they are able to store less and less energy compared to when they are new.
This results in noticeable reduction in capacity of battery over time.
This phenomenon is more noticeable and common in Smartphones and laptops. Where after 3-4 years of usage you are able to notice approximately 20% performance degradation in the battery capacity.
Now, this is also what gives origin to misconception of EV batteries don’t last long. While EV batteries are also based on same Lithium material as batteries in phones and laptops.
EV batteries are specially designed to last long. They also have different design and form factor than phones/laptop batteries.
A typical EV battery can easily last minimum of 10 years and can easily go upwards of 16 years. More innovations and researches are being to done to enhance this value further.
In short, your EV battery will outlast life of your Electric vehicle in most cases.
With that said there are factors which can reduce life of your EV batteries.
Factors Affecting Battery Longevity:
- Battery Usage Patterns: The way you use your EV’s battery can significantly impacts its lifespan.
- Frequent deep discharges, where the battery is drained to very low levels, can accelerate degradation.
- Also, Frequent short trips with multiple acceleration and deceleration cycles can be more taxing on the battery than longer, steady-state journeys.
- Temperature Impacts: Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can adversely affect battery performance and lifespan.
- High temperatures can cause accelerated degradation. This is why most EVs have active cooling systems to maintain the battery pack within an optimal temperature range.
- while cold temperatures can temporarily reduce the battery’s available capacity.
- Charging Habits:
- Overcharging or leaving the battery at a high state of charge for prolonged periods can stress the cells and lead to premature aging.
- Frequently usage fast charging can also lead to degradation
Average Lifespan of Electric Car Batteries
- Expected Mileage: Most EV manufacturers estimate their EV batteries to last between 100,000 and 200,000 miles before significant degradation occurs. However, this value can vary depending on driving habits, climate conditions, and maintenance.
- Calendar Life: Even if not used extensively, EV batteries have a finite calendar life, typically ranging from 8 to 10 years, after which their capacity may start to decline more rapidly.
Signs of Battery Degradation
There are several tell signs which can tell you about the signs of battery degradation like
Reduced Range
As your EV battery ages, its capacity decreases. This results in a shorter driving range on a single charge. For example – earlier you were able to drive more miles on 80% charge and after 10 years you will be able to drive less miles on 80% charge. This is one of the most noticeable signs of battery degradation.
Slower Charging Times
Degraded batteries may take longer to charge. That means if your battery is degraded it will take more time to charge compared to when it was new. This happens due to change in internal chemistry of battery as time goes, the battery ability to accept and store charge becomes less efficient.
Battery Health Indicators
Most EVs of today have a built-in battery management system that display indicators or warnings related to the battery’s health and remaining capacity. Meaning the vehicle’s Battery Management System (BMS) may detect issues with the battery pack and trigger error codes or warning lights on the dashboard. This is just like check engine light in conventional IC vehicles. These alerts can indicate specific problems, such as a faulty cell or imbalance within the battery pack, which can be addressed accordingly.
After learning about Electric car batteries lifespan and Signs of degradation. It is time for tips for maintenance and care to enhance longevity of you EV battery.
Maintenance and Care for Longevity
Best Practices for Battery Maintenance and to extend battery life
Follow Manufacturer Guidelines
Follow the manual from your EV manufacturer for recommended charging, maintenance, and usage procedures for your specific electric vehicle model. These guidelines are designed to optimize battery health and longevity.
Maintain Optimal Charge Levels
Avoid leaving your EV at extremely low or high states of charge for extended periods. It’s generally recommended to keep the battery between 20% and 80% charge when possible. Avoid frequent deep discharges (using until the batteries dies at 0% charge) or charging to 100% unless necessary.
Minimize Frequent Fast Charging
This is also related to charging habit. You should avoid using fast charging frequently. While fast charging is convenient, it can potentially cause more stress on the battery cells compared to slower charging methods. Avoid frequent use of fast charging unless necessary.
Maximize Battery Utilization/Avoid charging EV everyday: Before plugging in to charge, try to utilize as much of the battery’s capacity as possible. Charge your vehicle when it’s necessary, and not plug the vehicle in as soon as you find an opportunity. This way you can extend your battery life.
Manage Battery Temperature
Avoid Exposure to extreme hot or cold temperatures can accelerate battery degradation. Park your EV in shaded areas or garages whenever possible. Although EV batteries already have cooling mechanism and thermal management. Efforts from your side can further ensure the optimum health of your EV battery.
Schedule Regular Service
This one goes without saying. Follow your EV manufacturer’s recommended service schedule, this includes any battery-specific maintenance or inspections.
Practice Efficient Driving
Aggression is rarely helpful is any instance of life. EV battery also has similar rules. Aggressive acceleration, high-speed driving, and excessive use of accessories can lead to faster battery degradation.
Adopt an efficient driving style with gradual acceleration and braking to minimize strain on the battery.
Monitor Battery Health
Regularly check your EV battery health indicators or apps provided by your EV to monitor the battery’s condition. This is useful in identifying potential issues early and taking preventive measures.
Conclusion
The EV battery lifespan is one important consideration when you are going to potentially own an EV. In practice, modern EV batteries are designed to be long lasting and most likely outlast the vehicle they’re part of.
While the degradation of EV battery will eventually happen, by understanding the factors behind its degradation and following proper care and maintenance as we have discussed.
You can maximize the life of your EV battery.
The world of EV batteries is only getting more exciting with manufacturers continuing to make advancement in battery technology. Leading to even longer-lasting and more efficient electric vehicles.
