EV batteries are estimated to last between 15 and 20 years – or 100,000 to 200,000 miles - before a replacement is required. By comparison, traditional internal combustion engines (ICEs) only last around 12 years. Most manufacturers offer an 8-year or 100,000-mile warranty against any early failure.
EVs tend to lose roughly 2% of their battery capacity each year. This means that the maximum range of your EV will very gradually decrease over time. However, there are some steps you can take to mitigate this.
Minimise charging: It might seem strange but avoiding charging to 100% unless you really need to can help prolong your EVs battery life. Don’t leave it on charge all night, every night. If you can, keep the battery between 20% and 80%. Avoid using rapid chargers frequently.
Avoid running flat: Further to the last point, don’t push your luck when it comes to draining the battery completely. Running out of charge is not only inconvenient (and a bit embarrassing), but also bad for your battery’s long-term health. Get yourself to a charger when you’re approaching the 20% mark.
Avoid extreme temperatures: Your EV’s battery won’t take too kindly to getting really hot or cold. If you can, keep your car out of direct heat when it’s parked and ideally, stick in the garage during the colder months.
Drive sensibly: This might be a tricky one given how much instant power you’ll have at your disposal in an EV, but driving slower will be better for your battery in the long run. Stomping on the accelerator will drain the battery quicker, which isn’t ideal for its longevity.