A recent study by Recurrent Auto has found that the lifespan of second-hand electric vehicle batteries exceeds the expectations of both critics and consumers. This groundbreaking discovery dispels many myths and concerns about electric vehicle batteries.
Over 15,000 electric vehicle owners participated in Recurrent Auto’s survey, providing the most comprehensive battery health data to date. The study found that the lifespan of electric vehicle batteries is much longer than previously thought, with only 1.5% of car owners needing to replace their batteries outside of warranty or recall. The majority of those replacements occurred in older Nissan Leafs, which lacked a liquid-cooled battery temperature control system.
The survey covered 13 models, including Tesla Model S, Model 3, and Model Y; Chevrolet Bolt, Bolt EUV, and Volt; Hyundai Kona; BMW i3; Audi e-tron; Nissan Leaf; Hyundai Kona and IONIQ 5; and Ford Mustang Mach-E.
The study also revealed that battery decay is not a linear process, with decay rates increasing as mileage approaches 100,000 miles and then stabilizing. This phenomenon is attributed to two key technologies, battery management systems and battery temperature control systems, which significantly extend battery life. These systems allow car owners to limit the amount of battery charging, reducing damage to battery health, and ensure that the battery operates at a safe and healthy temperature.
The second-hand electric vehicle market is perhaps the most promising market for Recurrent Auto’s data. Many people consider it to be a high-risk market, but the study shows that buyers do not have to worry about the health of the battery in the used electric vehicle they want to buy.
