
Electric vehicles (EVs) are increasingly becoming a popular choice for consumers, and one of the key factors that potential buyers consider is the longevity of the battery. A recent study by Recurrent Auto has shed light on the EV models that have shown the least battery degradation over time. The study analyzed over 10,000 EVs across 15 models from 2015-2023, focusing on the state of health (SoH) degradation after 3-5 years of use. Here are the eight EV models that stood out in the study for their battery health.
2018-2023 Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3, produced between 2018 and 2023, topped the list with an impressive average battery degradation of only 1.6% after 5 years or 60,000 miles. This minimal capacity loss is a testament to Tesla’s advanced battery technology and management. According to Tesla’s 2023 Impact Report, the Model 3 showed an average battery degradation of 15% after 200,000 miles, further demonstrating its long-term reliability.
2020-2023 Tesla Model Y
Another Tesla model, the Model Y produced between 2020 and 2023, also showed impressive battery health, with an average degradation of 2.3% after 3 years or 40,000 miles. This is a testament to Tesla’s commitment to improving battery longevity, as evidenced by their 2023 Impact Report which showed that the Model Y Long Range versions only lost about 12% of their capacity on average after 200,000 miles.
2017-2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV
The Chevrolet Bolt EV, manufactured between 2017 and 2023, proved that affordable EVs can also offer excellent battery health. The model retained 95% SoH after 5 years, with just 1.8% degradation on average. This is a significant achievement for Chevrolet and a strong selling point for consumers looking for a cost-effective EV that doesn’t compromise on battery longevity.
2019-2023 Hyundai Kona Electric
The Hyundai Kona Electric, produced between 2019 and 2023, also demonstrated commendable battery health. The model had an average degradation of 2.1% after 4 years or 50,000 miles. This highlights the reliability of Korean manufacturers in the EV market. A Kona owner reported that they still had the advertised battery values after 3 years and 20,000 km, further supporting the model’s durability.
2019-2023 Kia Niro EV
The Kia Niro EV, manufactured between 2019 and 2023, showed a degradation of 2.4% after 3 years, maintaining high SoH in real-world data from diverse climates. This is a significant achievement for Kia, as it shows that their EVs can maintain excellent battery health even under varying environmental conditions. A recent study also ranked the Kia EV6 at the top for battery longevity, further cementing Kia’s reputation in the EV market.
2020-2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E
The Ford Mustang Mach-E, produced between 2020 and 2023, outperformed expectations by averaging 2.2% degradation after 3 years. This is a significant achievement for Ford, as it shows that their entry into the EV market is backed by solid battery performance. The Mach-E’s strong battery health is a testament to Ford’s commitment to delivering high-quality EVs to consumers.
2021-2023 Volkswagen ID.4
The Volkswagen ID.4, manufactured between 2021 and 2023, showed an average degradation of 2.5% after 2 years. Despite being a relatively new model, the ID.4 has shown strong longevity projections based on early fleet data. This is a promising sign for Volkswagen’s future in the EV market, as it shows that they are capable of producing vehicles with durable and long-lasting batteries.
2018-2023 Tesla Model S (Long Range)
Finally, the Tesla Model S (Long Range), produced between 2018 and 2023, retained 92% SoH after 5 years, equating to 2.0% degradation. As a premium model, the Model S serves as a benchmark for other EVs in terms of battery health. According to a report, Model S batteries are expected to lose only about 12% of their capacity on average after 200,000 miles, further demonstrating Tesla’s commitment to battery longevity.
In conclusion, these eight EV models have shown exceptional battery health over time, making them excellent choices for consumers looking for reliable and durable electric vehicles. As battery technology continues to improve, we can expect to see even better performance from future EV models.
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