Summary
– Electric vehicle battery replacements are rare, with only 2.5% of batteries in 2011-2024 model year EVs being replaced so far
– EV critics often cite battery replacements as a downside due to high cost, but in reality, replacements are extremely rare
– Despite recalls from companies like GM and Hyundai, the majority of electric car batteries remain in their original vehicles, especially for Tesla
– Only 13% of older cars (pre-2015) have had battery replacements, while replacement rates are under 1% for 2016 and newer models
– Battery-related recalls have not resulted in financial inconvenience for consumers, as automakers have taken care of replacements under warranty.
Article
A recent study conducted by Recurrent has shown that electric vehicle battery replacements are rare, with only 2.5% of batteries in 2011 to 2024 model year EVs being replaced, excluding high-profile recalls like GM’s issues with the Chevy Bolt EV. Critics often cite battery replacements as a downside of EV ownership due to the high cost of batteries, but the study reveals that replacements are actually uncommon.
Despite some battery recalls from automakers like General Motors and Hyundai, the majority of electric car batteries remain in their original vehicles. This is particularly true for Tesla, which dominates electric vehicle sales in the United States. Recurrent’s findings show that only 2.5% of EV batteries have been replaced, with older cars having a higher replacement rate compared to newer models.
The study also highlights that battery-related recalls have not resulted in significant financial inconvenience for consumers. Most battery replacements occurring under warranty are handled by automakers themselves, as seen in instances like GM’s replacement of a Hummer EV owner’s battery and Rivian’s all-electric adventure vehicles. In the case of the Hummer EV owner, GM offered a new battery, a loaner vehicle, and compensation for the old battery.
Recurrent’s study emphasizes that outside of major recalls, the rate of electric vehicle battery replacements remains low. Cars older than 2015 have a replacement rate of 13%, while cars from 2016 and newer have a replacement rate of under 1%. The study provides reassurance to potential EV buyers by showing that concerns about costly battery replacements may be unfounded.
The study conducted by Recurrent sheds light on the relatively low frequency of electric vehicle battery replacements, contradicting common criticisms of EVs as impractical due to high battery replacement costs. With battery replacements being handled under warranty by automakers, consumers have not faced significant financial burdens related to EV battery maintenance. The findings provide a positive outlook on the longevity and reliability of electric vehicle batteries, especially in newer models.
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