Longevity of EV Batteries Changes the Perception of Electromobility

EV Batteries Prove More Durable and Sustainable Than Expected. Recent studies on over 7,000 electric vehicles (EVs) reveal that their batteries retain more than 80% of their original capacity after covering an impressive 200,000 kilometers. These findings dispel the myth of rapid battery degradation and highlight their economic and ecological value throughout their lifecycle.

Contrary to widespread concerns, EV battery degradation occurs more slowly than anticipated. Data shows that while the first 30,000 kilometers result in a slightly faster capacity decline (due to the formation of the Solid Electrolyte Interphase, or SEI), the degradation rate stabilizes, leading to a steady, linear decline over time.

Key Findings:

Performance Retention: Even heavily used batteries retain 90% of their capacity for many years.
Reliability: Manufacturer warranties (8–10 years or up to 1 million kilometers for models like the Lexus UX 300e) reflect growing confidence in battery technology.
The EV Battery Lifecycle: Stages of Use
EV battery degradation follows a predictable pattern, divided into three key phases:

End-of-Warranty (EoW): This phase begins after the standard warranty period of eight years or 160,000 kilometers. Most batteries retain at least 80% capacity, ensuring satisfactory range and performance.

End-of-First-Life (EoFL): Occurs when capacity no longer meets driver expectations, such as reduced range. At this stage, batteries can be repurposed for second-life applications, including residential energy storage or renewable energy systems.

End-of-Second-Life (EoSL): Begins when the battery is no longer functional or safe for use. However, its materials—like lithium, nickel, and cobalt—remain valuable and can be recycled to support a circular economy and reduce the need for new resource extraction.

Factors Affecting Battery Health

Battery longevity depends on production quality and usage patterns. Key factors include:

Charging Practices:

Frequent fast charging accelerates degradation due to high heat and voltage.
Optimal charging involves maintaining a state of charge (SoC) between 20% and 80%.
Driving Style:

Aggressive driving generates heat, negatively affecting battery life.
Gentle driving and avoiding rapid acceleration can extend battery lifespan.
Temperature Management:

Extreme temperatures speed up degradation.
Parking in shaded or climate-controlled areas mitigates this effect.
Calendar Aging:

Batteries naturally degrade over time, even when unused. Avoiding prolonged storage at high SoC can reduce this effect.

The Future of EV Batteries: Durability and Innovation
Advancements in technology continue to enhance battery performance and durability. Key innovations include:

Improved battery chemistries that slow degradation rates.
Advanced Battery Management Systems (BMS) for optimized charging and discharging.
Enhanced thermal management systems to protect against extreme temperatures.
These developments ensure that most batteries retain over 90% capacity even after years of use, reinforcing their economic and sustainable appeal. With technological progress and supportive policies, EVs are becoming integral to achieving global climate goals.

Source: environmentenergyleader.com