Summary
- False statements and half-truths about electric cars and batteries are abundant on the internet
- Used electric cars are easier to sell than the myth suggests, as batteries last longer than anticipated
- P3 study analyzed real data from electric cars to dispel myths about battery life in EVs
- Battery degradation in electric cars decreases over time with increasing mileage
- Electric car battery health can be maintained by considering factors like temperature, charge level, and driving habits
Article
Electric cars and their batteries have been the subject of numerous myths and false statements, ranging from concerns about child labor in cobalt mining to worries about battery ageing and the need for costly replacements. One common myth is that used electric cars will be difficult to sell due to rapidly aging batteries. However, a study by management consultancy P3 aimed to dispel these myths by providing real-world data on battery degradation in electric vehicles. The study looked at 50 EVs from its own fleet and analyzed data from 7,000 other electric cars to determine the actual lifespan of these batteries.
The P3 study found that while there is an initial drop in battery health in the first 30,000 kilometers, degradation decreases with increasing mileage. The state of health was around 90 percent at 100,000 kilometers and remained relatively stable beyond that point. Factors such as environmental influences, driving behavior, and battery management systems implemented by car manufacturers all play a role in battery ageing. The study also highlighted that actual battery capacity is maintained longer than assumed under real-world conditions, especially with high mileages.
The study emphasized the importance of how electric vehicles are used in determining battery longevity. Factors such as temperature, charge level when parked, charging behavior, and driving habits can all impact battery health. The research also indicated that battery ageing rarely breaches the terms of the standard battery warranty, which is typically 8 years or 160,000 kilometers. Even after the warranty expires, the battery may still have value for second-life applications before being recycled.
Overall, studies like the one conducted by P3 aim to debunk myths and misinformation surrounding electric vehicles and their batteries. With real-world data showing that batteries in electric cars are durable and reliable, it is important to counteract the anti-EV propaganda spread through social media. As electric cars continue to evolve and improve, understanding the true lifespan of electric vehicle batteries is crucial for promoting confidence in electric mobility and accelerating the cleantech revolution.
Read the full article here
