How Long Does a Tesla Last Before Scrapping?
2 Answers
Tesla vehicles, including 5-seat family sedans and 7-seat SUVs, as well as non-commercial small and mini vehicles, have no usage lifespan restrictions. When the normal mileage reaches 600,000 kilometers, the state will guide the scrapping process. In addition to the above-mentioned vehicles, small and mini non-commercial passenger vehicles, large non-commercial sedans, and wheeled special machinery vehicles also have no usage lifespan restrictions. Vehicle scrapping process: 1. The car owner applying for scrapping and renewal must fill out and submit one copy of the "Motor Vehicle Change, Transfer, Modification, Suspension, and Scrapping Approval Application Form," stamped with the owner's seal. 2. Apply at the registration acceptance counter. For vehicles that have reached the scrapping age, a "Vehicle Scrapping Notice" will be issued. For vehicles that have not reached the scrapping age but are deemed to meet the scrapping standards after inspection by the motor vehicle inspection counter, a "Vehicle Scrapping Notice" will be issued. 3. The vehicle owner can choose a qualified recycling company to dismantle the vehicle based on the "Notice." 4. After verifying the "Notice," the recycling company will dismantle the vehicle and take photos. The engine must be separated from the vehicle, the engine block must be broken, and the frame (chassis) must be cut. 5. The vehicle owner must submit the "Change Form," "XX Province Vehicle Renewal Technical Appraisal Form," "Scrapped Vehicle Recycling Certificate," and photos of the dismantled vehicle to the motor vehicle inspection counter for verification and signature. The license plates and certificates will be reclaimed, and the scrapping registration will be processed after approval according to regulations.
I've driven several Teslas, and there's no fixed standard for when they're scrapped—it mainly depends on battery life. Officially, the battery is said to last over 10 years or 150,000 to 200,000 kilometers, but in reality, it varies by individual. For example, frequent fast charging or driving in extremely hot areas can accelerate battery degradation, possibly leading to a significant drop in performance after just 8 years, making it less usable. Other components like the motor are generally fine, but outdated software can also be an issue. Overall, Teslas are designed to be more durable—I've seen a friend's Model S still running after over 12 years—but when maintenance costs get too high, it might be time to scrap it for a new one. My advice is to check the range and overall condition after about 10 years; if it doesn't meet standards, don't push it.
