As more Australians make the switch to electric vehicles (EVs), one of the most common questions that comes up is: How long do EV batteries last? It’s a fair concern, especially with the upfront cost of electric cars and all the new technology involved. The good news? EV battery life has improved significantly in recent years, and for most drivers, it’s not something you’ll need to worry about for a long time.
In this guide, let’s look at how long electric vehicle batteries last, what affects their lifespan, and how you can make the most of yours.
What’s Inside an EV Battery?
Electric vehicle batteries aren’t like the ones in your torch or even your laptop. Most EVs run on lithium-ion battery packs, which are made up of hundreds or thousands of individual battery cells. These cells store the power that drives the electric motor.
These battery packs are designed to last. They are built to power the vehicle for many years and are supported by advanced battery management systems (BMS). The BMS regulates temperature, charging rates, and energy output to keep things running safely and smoothly.
So, How Long Do EV Batteries Last?
Most car manufacturers back their EV batteries with an 8-year or 160,000-kilometre warranty. Current estimates put EV battery life between 10 and 15 years under everyday driving conditions. After that, the battery might still be perfectly usable, just not at full capacity.
Here’s what many Australian EV drivers can reasonably expect:
- Newer EVs typically last 10–15 years before major degradation is noticeable.
- Well-maintained batteries can show minimal capacity loss even after 8 years on the road.
- Heavier use or tough conditions (like constant rapid charging or extreme heat) can reduce battery life.
What Impacts EV Battery Life?
The key point to remember is that EV batteries rarely fail completely. Instead, they slowly lose capacity over time. That means you might notice shorter driving ranges as the battery ages, but the car will still operate. This degradation is usually gradual and managed by the car’s battery management system, which helps preserve performance for as long as possible.
These are the main things that affect battery longevity:
1. Charging Habits
Charging to 100% regularly or running your battery flat every day can cause wear over time. Most manufacturers suggest keeping your charge between 20% and 80% for day-to-day driving.
2. Climate & Temperature
Lithium-ion batteries can be affected by very hot or cold temperatures. Most EVs are built with thermal management systems to control this, but extreme climates can still have a long-term impact.
3. Driving Conditions
Frequent high-speed driving, towing, or stop-start traffic can place more demand on the battery. However, this usually isn’t a major concern for regular city or highway driving.
4. Fast Charging Use
Ultra-rapid charging is handy, but frequent use can create more heat and may reduce battery life over time. Occasional fast charging is no problem, especially when travelling long distances.
Can EV Batteries Be Replaced or Repaired?
Yes, they can. EV batteries are replaceable, although a full battery replacement can be expensive. The good news is that most EVs are built so that only faulty modules may need replacing, not the entire battery pack.
If your battery does need to be replaced under warranty, most manufacturers will cover it if the capacity drops below a certain threshold, often 70%.
How to Extend the Life of Your EV Battery
If you want to help your EV battery last as long as possible, here are a few easy things you can do:
- Try not to charge to 100% every night unless you actually need the full range the next day.
- Try not to let the battery drop below 10% too often.
- Keep your car parked in the shade or garage during extreme weather.
- Use smart charging features if your EV has them.
- Mix up your charging methods and don’t rely on fast chargers daily.
Keep Your EV in Top Shape with Tyrepower
At Tyrepower, we’re here to support your journey into electric driving. Our experienced team understands the ins and outs of EV care, from tyres and suspension to diagnostics and battery system support. We’ll help you keep things running smoothly, so you can get the most out of your electric vehicle.
This service may not be available at all Tyrepower locations. Please contact 13 21 91 your nearest store to check availability.
