How Many Years Do Electric Vehicle Batteries Last?
2 Answers
National regulations mandate that the three-electric system (battery pack, motor, and electronic control) of pure electric vehicles must have a warranty period of 8 years or 120,000 kilometers. Classification of Electric Vehicle Batteries: Electric vehicle batteries are divided into two main categories: storage batteries and fuel cells. Storage batteries are used in pure electric vehicles and include lead-acid batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, sodium-sulfur batteries, secondary lithium batteries, air batteries, and ternary lithium batteries. Fuel cells are specifically used in fuel cell electric vehicles and include alkaline fuel cells (AFC), phosphoric acid fuel cells (PAFC), molten carbonate fuel cells (MCFC), solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC), proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC), and direct methanol fuel cells (DMFC). Functions of Storage Batteries: The role of storage batteries varies slightly depending on the type of electric vehicle. In pure electric vehicles equipped solely with storage batteries, the battery serves as the sole power source for the vehicle's drive system. In hybrid vehicles equipped with a traditional engine (or fuel cell) and a storage battery, the battery can act either as the primary power source or as an auxiliary power source for the drive system. Specifically, at low speeds and during startup, the battery functions as the primary power source; during full-load acceleration, it acts as an auxiliary power source; and during normal driving, deceleration, or braking, it serves as an energy storage device.
When I first started driving, I often paid attention to battery warranties. The typical warranty period for a car battery is around two years, but it varies depending on the brand and type. For example, mainstream gasoline car brands like Toyota or Honda usually offer a two-year warranty, while luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz may provide over three years. The battery systems of pure electric vehicles often have even longer warranties, sometimes up to five years. However, it's important to understand the difference between 'warranty coverage' and actual lifespan. The warranty period refers to the manufacturer's promise to replace the battery for free within that timeframe, while the actual battery can last three to five years or even longer. Regular maintenance, such as avoiding excessive discharge and checking for terminal corrosion, can extend its lifespan. If the car is parked for too long or used mostly for short trips, the battery tends to age faster. I recommend getting the battery tested at a repair shop every six months—this is more practical than just relying on the warranty period, ensuring both driving safety and cost-effectiveness.
