EV Battery Lifespan: How Long Before Replacement?
The lifespan of electric vehicle (EV) batteries has been a significant concern for potential buyers and current owners alike. Recent findings from a UK study provide insights into the average health of EV batteries, suggesting that they often surpass expectations.
Key Findings on EV Battery Lifespan
The study conducted by Generational assessed over 8,000 EVs from various manufacturers in 2025. The average battery health was found to be an impressive 95.15%. This figure indicates that most electric vehicles maintain high capacity even as they age.
Impact of Age on Battery Health
- EVs aged 2-3 years had a median battery health of 96.94%.
- For EVs aged 3-4 years, the average health dropped slightly to 95.17%.
- Older EVs, those between 8-12 years, showed a decrease, averaging 85.04% battery health.
Though battery health declines with age, older models often continue to perform well. Generational reported that a small percentage of older vehicles did experience significant degradation, but these results are not representative of most across this demographic.
Mileage vs. Battery Health
Another crucial finding is that high mileage does not necessarily equate to poor battery health. EVs with over 100,000 miles often demonstrated between 88% and 95% of their initial battery capacity.
An example includes a 2019 Tesla Model 3 with 113,000 miles, retaining approximately 79% of its capacity. Factors influencing battery degradation include frequent fast charging and environmental conditions.
Implications for Used EV Market
Generational highlighted the need for improved transparency regarding battery health in the used EV market. Without clear data, potential buyers may hesitate, impacting residual vehicle values.
As the study reveals, many used EVs, especially those a few years old, have batteries that remain in good condition. Buyers can benefit from conducting battery health tests to validate the longevity and performance of prospective purchases.
In conclusion, while age and mileage can affect EV battery lifespan, the overall findings suggest a positive outlook for current and future owners. Understanding battery health can significantly aid consumers in making informed decisions about used electric vehicles.
