A new study has provided encouraging insights into the lifespan of electric vehicle (EV) batteries, dispelling fears about rapid degradation. Conducted by Canadian telematics company Geotab, the research builds upon a 2019 analysis, now with updated data from 10,000 EVs in fleet use.
20 Years and Still Going Strong
Geotab’s analysis indicates that with such a slow degradation rate, EV batteries could last over 20 years under normal usage conditions. For instance, an EV battery that starts with a 100% state of health would still retain over 80% of its capacity after 12 years. This resilience is particularly encouraging for fleet operators and everyday consumers alike, suggesting that investing in an EV is not just a short-term commitment but a long-term solution to sustainable transportation.
High Use? No Problem!
Interestingly, Geotab discovered that even electric vehicles subjected to high usage did not experience significantly higher rates of battery degradation compared to their less frequently used counterparts. This challenges the conventional wisdom that intensive driving or frequent charging would lead to faster wear and tear on the battery. Fleet managers can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that they can deploy EVs in demanding duty cycles without major concerns about battery health.
Beware of Fast Charging EV Batteries
However, the study did raise a crucial warning about the use of direct current fast charging (DCFC). Regularly relying on DCFC can accelerate battery wear due to the high currents and temperatures generated during rapid charging. To extend battery life, experts recommend limiting DCFC use and maintaining a charging state between 20% and 80%. This simple practice can significantly enhance the longevity of an EV battery, making it more dependable over the years.
While we need more comprehensive data to fully understand the long-term effects of battery degradation, Geotab’s latest findings provide a compelling argument for the viability of electric vehicles. With proper care and smart charging habits, the vast majority of EV batteries could outlive the cars they power. This revelation is a wake-up call for skeptics of electric mobility, highlighting that not only are EVs environmentally friendly, but they are also designed for long-lasting performance. It’s time to rethink the narrative—your EV battery isn’t just built to last; it’s built to outlast!
