How Long Does an Electric Vehicle Battery Last?
2 Answers
Electric vehicle batteries can theoretically last over ten years, but in practice, they typically need replacement after about eight years. Currently, most electric vehicles use lithium-ion batteries, which offer advantages such as low-temperature performance and minimal energy loss. Lithium-ion batteries are further categorized into ternary lithium batteries and lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries. LFP batteries generally have a longer lifespan than ternary lithium batteries but suffer from larger size and limited range, which are significant drawbacks. Below is an introduction to these two types of batteries: 1. Ternary lithium batteries are characterized by high energy density, meaning they provide greater capacity for the same volume and weight, along with excellent battery consistency and mature production technology. According to a Japanese research report on "automotive battery packs," ternary lithium batteries have a cycle life of around 1,500 cycles under normal operating conditions, with a full charge-discharge lifespan of approximately 800 cycles. Additionally, when maintaining a battery utilization rate of at least 25%, they can endure up to 1,200 charge cycles under normal conditions. 2. Lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries are known for their extended cycle life, capable of exceeding 2,000 cycles. They also feature high charge-discharge rates, allowing for larger currents during charging and discharging. Moreover, LFP batteries exhibit excellent safety, withstanding bending, puncturing, and high temperatures without issues.
As someone who has driven an electric car for five years, mainly for urban commuting, I find the battery still holding up well. Generally speaking, the lifespan of such lithium-ion batteries is around 8 to 15 years or 100,000 to 200,000 kilometers, but the actual condition depends on usage habits. I avoid draining the battery to zero before charging and usually maintain the charge level between 40% and 80%, minimizing fast charging—frequent fast charging accelerates battery degradation due to thermal runaway. For maintenance, I park in shaded areas during summer to avoid extreme heat and avoid leaving the car outdoors in freezing winter temperatures, as stable temperatures prolong battery life. The average annual degradation rate is about 1-2%. My car has covered around 100,000 kilometers, and tests show less than 3% capacity loss, which is quite good. Without proper care, batteries can degrade prematurely, requiring costly replacements—currently priced at tens of thousands of yuan on the market. So, small daily habits can save big money in the long run.
