Summary
- Tesla Model 3 with LFP battery pack usable after 110,000 miles with minimal degradation
- LFP batteries have advantages of lower production cost and minimal degradation compared to NMC cells
- LFP Model 3 driven extensively with DC fast charging, city driving, but no repairs needed
- Battery degradation on LFP Model 3 at just 5% after constant charging to 100%
- Tesla discontinued LFP Model 3 in the US, but it can be a good choice for used EV seekers.
Article
Tesla Model 3 LFP Battery Pack Shows Minimal Degradation After 110,000 Miles
One Tesla Model 3 owner shares his experience with an LFP battery pack, noting that despite frequent DC fast charging to 100%, the battery has shown minimal degradation after driving nearly 110,000 miles. This showcases the advantages of LFP batteries over NMC cells in terms of lower production costs and long-term performance.
LFP Batteries vs. NMC Cells: A Comparison of Advantages and Disadvantages
Lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries offer lower production costs and minimal degradation even with frequent full charges, but come with lower energy density compared to nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) cells. While NMC batteries typically require charging to 80% to minimize degradation, LFP batteries can be charged to 100% without significant impact on performance.
Real-World Performance of a Tesla Model 3 with LFP Battery Pack
An LFP-equipped 2022 Tesla Model 3 has been used extensively as a ride-sharing vehicle in Texas, undergoing extensive DC fast charging and city driving. Despite the high usage, the car has shown minimal degradation, with the original battery capacity of 57.5 kWh only experiencing a 5% decrease after 110,000 miles of use.
Notable Results and Comparisons in Battery Degradation
Multiple Tesla Model 3 owners have reported similar minimal degradation results with LFP battery packs, with some showing only 2% degradation after 20,000 miles and around 5% after 85,000 miles of driving. These results highlight the durability and long-term performance of LFP batteries when charged to 100% as recommended by Tesla.
Understanding the Differences Between LFP and NMC Batteries
While LFP batteries may have lower energy density than NMC cells, they are cost-effective and can withstand frequent full charges without significant degradation. On the other hand, NMC batteries offer higher range when fully charged but require frequent charging to 80% to preserve longevity. These factors play a crucial role in choosing between the two battery types for EVs.
Considerations for Purchasing a Used EV with LFP Battery Pack
Although Tesla has discontinued the LFP-powered Model 3 in the US, opting for NMC-powered models instead, used EVs with LFP battery packs may still be a viable option for those looking for cost-effective and reliable electric vehicles. The minimal degradation and long-term performance of LFP batteries showcased by the Model 3 owner’s experience make them a compelling choice for potential buyers.
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