Summary
- Most charging for the 2018 Tesla Model 3 Performance comes from Tesla Superchargers
- EV batteries are exceeding their battery warranty expectations
- Battery degradation for electric vehicles is most significant in the first 75,000 miles
- The Model 3 owner tracked the vehicle’s battery health and found about 11-15% degradation after 200,000 miles
- The owner has experienced minor issues with the vehicle, but overall the electric car has performed well throughout the 200,000 miles
Article
EV Batteries Are Outlasting Their Battery Warranty
Many anti-EV critics often claim that electric vehicle batteries need to be replaced every 75,000 miles, but this is simply not true for modern EVs with larger battery packs. A driver of a 2018 Tesla Model 3 Performance has put 200,000 miles on the original pack in less than six years, proving that batteries can provide a usable driving range for hundreds of thousands of miles.
Improved Battery Reliability in Modern EVs
Early EV models like the first-generation Nissan Leaf had issues with battery reliability due to small pack size and lack of thermal management. However, automakers have quickly learned from these mistakes, with cars like the Tesla Model S and Chevrolet Volt showing minimal range loss even after 200,000 miles. Liquid-cooled, lithium-ion battery packs have significantly improved the longevity and reliability of modern EV batteries.
Stable Battery Performance Over Long-term Use
The Tesla Model 3 Performance owner has seen minimal degradation in battery capacity over the past 50,000 miles, with the highest amount of degradation typically occurring in the first 75,000 miles. Despite his frequent use of Supercharging stations, the battery still accepts roughly 66 kWh at 200,000 miles, indicating a degradation of around 11-12%.
Maintenance and Repairs Over 200,000 Miles
While the Model 3 Performance has been mostly issue-free, the owner had to repair a noisy upper control arm early on and service the supercharging hardware after 100,000 miles. Tires have lasted 40,000-50,000 miles, and the original brake pads are still in use. However, the A/C may need servicing soon. With proper maintenance, modern EVs are expected to reach 200,000 miles with minimal range loss.
Comparison to Early-generation EVs
Early-generation EVs with small battery packs and no thermal management would likely have required a battery replacement by 200,000 miles. However, modern, well-maintained plug-in cars like the Model 3 Performance are expected to retain their range over long-term use. This showcases the advancements in battery technology and reliability in the EV industry.
Share Your Electric Vehicle Experience
If you own an electric vehicle, share your experience with us in the comments below. How many miles have you driven on your oldest EV, and have you noticed any significant range loss over time? With the data supporting the long-term reliability of modern EV batteries, it’s clear that electric vehicles are a viable and sustainable option for drivers looking for a reliable and efficient mode of transportation.
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