EV Batteries Last Longer Than Expected: New Study Show They Are More Durable Than We Think

In an innovative study that should bring relief to electric vehicle (EV) owners and potential buyers, Dekra has revealed evidence about the longevity of EV batteries. After conducting over 25,000 “state-of-health” tests, the research suggests that EV batteries are far more resilient than many fear.

The most striking finding comes from a real-world test involving Jaguar electric taxis in Munich, Germany. These EVs, which have been in service since 2018, underwent extensive testing after accumulating between 180,000 km and 260,000 km. The results were remarkable: the traction batteries maintained an impressive 95 to 97 percent of their original health.

Gregor Beiner, Managing Director of the Munich Taxi Centre, shared their experience stating, “We charged the vehicles about one and a half times a day, often not particularly gently, but always to full capacity. Our experience with electric vehicles has been extremely positive.”

Many potential EV buyers harbor concerns about battery longevity, often drawing parallels with smartphone batteries that noticeably degrade within a few years. Christoph Nolte from Dekra explains that this comparison is largely misplaced. “Our experience with the battery test shows significantly longer periods of use,” he stated. “Even at higher mileages, we still find a state of health of over 90 percent in most cases.”

Dekra, the testing organization, developed a rapid battery test procedure that assesses a battery’s condition in just 15 minutes, currently available for around 130 vehicle models. The process involves a static test, a short acceleration drive (50 to 100 meters), and a complex evaluation under various conditions. 

Notably, this method creates a “coordinate structure” for precise battery condition analysis, which, according to Nolte, no other market method can achieve as quickly or accurately.

The Dekra findings are not isolated. Recent research from Stanford University suggests that EV batteries could last up to 40 percent longer than previously thought. The reason? Real-world driving and charging habits appear to put less strain on batteries than laboratory tests suggest.

While the overall outlook on EV battery longevity is positive, Dekra acknowledges that battery aging can vary depending on factors such as driving style, climate conditions, and charging behavior, all of which can influence the rate at which a battery degrades.

Dekra is already working on further improving its testing methodology. The organization aims to develop a test procedure that doesn’t require driving at all, instead measuring battery health during a short charging process.

Read More: EV Battery Breakthrough Unveiled: EV Batteries Lifespan Could Last 40% Longer

These findings could be crucial for the developing used EV market. As the most expensive component of an EV, battery condition is a key factor in determining a car’s value and long-term viability. As a result, modern EV batteries are far more robust and long-lasting than many believe. 

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