EV Batteries Retain 90% Capacity After 150,000 km, Exceeding Driver Expectations

EV Battery Durability Findings

A study conducted by Aviloo, an Austria-based battery health analysis group, indicates that electric vehicle (EV) batteries maintain a significant portion of their original usable capacity over time. The research found that the median state of health (SoH) for 20 popular EV models ranged between 87% and 94% after 150,000 kilometers of use.

Addressing Driver Concerns

Long-term battery durability has been a primary concern for drivers considering a switch from gasoline-powered vehicles to EVs. This study provides data suggesting that EV batteries are more robust than many drivers previously feared, potentially alleviating a major barrier to wider EV adoption. EV battery warranties typically guarantee 70% capacity retention for eight years or 160,000 kilometers.

Study Methodology and Scope

The Aviloo study analyzed over 500,000 tests performed globally on 20 EV models, including Tesla's Model Y and Volkswagen's ID.4, between 2022 and 2026. The median SoH was observed to be between 91% and 97% after 50,000 km, and between 88% and 95% after 100,000 km. Chinese EV models were not included due to a lack of available data.

Factors Influencing Degradation

The study also highlighted that battery degradation rates can vary significantly, even within the same EV model. Factors such as climate conditions, battery size, and driver habits, including parking practices, were identified as influences on a battery's longevity. This variability means that an EV's age and mileage alone do not fully indicate its battery's condition, unlike combustion engine vehicles.