- A study indicates the average EV battery loses 1.8% of its capacity each year
- This suggests that EV batteries could last more than 20 years, potentially outliving the vehicle itself
- Further advancements in reducing degradation could enhance opportunities for second-life applications
Battery degradation is a common concern among prospective electric vehicle owners, yet recent findings reveal that most batteries are likely to outlast the vehicles they power.
The information stems from Geotab’s “Taking Charge” report published earlier this year. Geotab, a company specializing in telematics systems and services for fleet operators, based its findings on data from 10,000 electric vehicles (EVs) across North America and Europe.
According to Geotab’s analysis, the average battery degradation rate is 1.8% annually, suggesting that batteries could last for 20 years or more at that rate. Some vehicles exhibited even better performance, with battery degradation rates falling below 1% per year.
Observed EV battery degradation (from 2024 Geotab)
These figures mark an improvement from recent years. In 2019, Geotab reported an average annual battery degradation rate of 2.3%, which improved to 1.6% in optimal climate and charging conditions.
The report emphasizes that increased EV usage does not lead to higher degradation, although frequent fast charges may have an impact. Geotab found a link between more frequent DC fast-charging and accelerated battery degradation, particularly in hotter climates. Owners are often advised against excessive fast charging due to this risk, although a 2023 analysis by battery-data firm Recurrent indicated that Tesla vehicles perform better in this aspect.
Additionally, previous findings from Recurrent indicated that EV batteries suffer more degradation in high temperatures. However, owners can mitigate this by parking in shaded or garage spaces and keeping the battery partially charged in hot conditions. Any degradation caused by heat is unlikely to leave drivers stranded in their EVs.
Chevrolet EVs at a Tesla Supercharger station
Moreover, it’s possible that battery degradation could be reduced further through improved practices. One study highlighted that initial high-power charging at the factory can significantly enhance the lifespan of EV batteries.
The slow rate of battery degradation observed in EVs on the road should instill greater confidence in electrification among fleet managers, according to Geotab. The report estimates that 75% of light commercial vehicles could be switched to comparable EVs today, and that adopting EVs could yield savings of $15,900 per vehicle over its lifetime.
This transition could also enhance the potential for second-life applications, such as energy storage for solar, wind, grid balancing, and other sustainable energy solutions.
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