Everything You Need to Know About EV Battery Life

With the UK Government planning to end the sale of new petrol and diesel cars and vans by 2035, many Brits are beginning to look into the capabilities of fully electric vehicles (EVs). Although EVs lack the roar of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, they offer numerous benefits to daily drivers.

For instance, EVs are easier to maintain than their petrol counterparts. Since they don’t have as many moving parts as ICE cars and require fewer fluids, electric vehicles don’t demand regular monitoring and replenishing. EVs are also more cost-effective in the long run because you no longer have to worry about fuel costs.

All they require is for you to keep them adequately charged, and there are two ways you can go about this. You can either go to your nearest public EV charging station or use a home EV charger that’s been installed by a professional that offers EV charging point installation services.

One of the many reasons why EVs can provide you with these advantages is their batteries. Many of today’s electric vehicles use lithium-ion battery packs, which is the same technology used in smartphones and laptop computers.

If you’re planning to purchase an EV, it’s in your best interest to understand how its batteries work. This way, you’ll know how to take better care of your electric vehicle’s battery and ensure that it lasts. Here are some things you need to know about EV batteries:

The EV Battery

An EV battery provides the energy that powers the vehicle's electric motor. It works by distributing electricity to the electric motor, which then converts this electrical energy into mechanical energy that propels the vehicle forward. This process is controlled by the vehicle's power electronics, which are responsible for regulating the flow of electricity from the battery to the motor.

Apart from providing power to the electric motor, the EV battery also acts as a generator that converts kinetic energy back into electrical energy during braking or coasting. This energy is then fed back into the battery pack through a process called regenerative braking. Through regenerative braking, the battery can get charged while being used, extending the vehicle's range.

EV Battery Components

The EV battery is made up of several components to ensure that it’s properly distributing power to the vehicle’s electric engine. Here are its three main components:

Battery Cells. The core components of an EV battery are individual battery cells. These cells are typically cylindrical or prismatic in shape and contain materials such as lithium-ion that allow for efficient energy storage.

Battery Pack. The battery pack consists of multiple battery cells that are grouped together to achieve the desired voltage and capacity. It’s the largest single component of an EV battery system and is usually located underneath the vehicle's floor.

Battery Management System (BMS). The BMS is responsible for monitoring and managing the performance of the battery pack. It regulates charging and discharging processes, monitors cell temperature, and ensures the safety and longevity of the battery.

Average Lifespan of an EV Battery

One of the primary concerns for prospective EV owners is the longevity of the vehicle's battery. The lifespan of an EV battery is typically measured in terms of cycles rather than years, as it depends largely on usage patterns and environmental factors. Nevertheless, according to current industry expectations, the average lifespan of EV batteries is around 15 to 20 years or between 100,000 and 200,000 miles.

Manufacturers generally provide warranty coverage for a certain number of years or miles to assure buyers of the battery's durability. However, even after the warranty period has expired, EV batteries often retain a significant portion of their original capacity, allowing them to continue providing reliable performance for many years.

Factors That Cause an EV Battery to Degrade

While modern EV batteries are designed to be durable and long-lasting, they can still experience degradation over time. Aggressive driving, frequent acceleration, and heavy loads can all increase the stress on the battery, leading to faster degradation. Driving in extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can also accelerate battery degradation. High temperatures can cause chemical reactions within the battery that degrade its components, while cold temperatures can reduce the battery's efficiency and capacity.

Thus, to ensure that your EV battery lasts, make it a habit to drive conservatively and avoid aggressive acceleration. You should also use your vehicle’s pre-conditioning features to heat or cool the battery before charging in extreme temperatures.

Best EV Charging Practices

Another cause for an EV battery to degrade quickly is how it’s charged. Rapid charging, such as DC fast charging, generates more heat and stress on the battery than slower charging methods. Plus, frequently charging the battery to full capacity or allowing it to fully discharge regularly can contribute to premature degradation. These can be stressful on the battery and shorten its lifespan.

Effective charging practices are crucial for maintaining the health and longevity of an EV battery. That’s why, it’s in your best interest to opt for slower charging methods whenever possible. Using a Level 2 charging station or a home EV charger is gentler on the battery since both use an AC voltage. If you plan to install a home EV charger, make sure to find a local EV charger installer near you. Letting a professional EV home charging point installation company install the charger for you will ensure that the unit is placed in an optimal spot for convenient and efficient charging.

Another thing you have to keep in mind is to keep your EV charged at a moderate level. It's generally recommended to avoid consistently charging the battery to its maximum capacity or allowing it to fully discharge. Instead, aim to keep the state of charge within a moderate range, typically between 20% and 80%, to minimise stress on the battery.

Finally, if your EV has a smart charging feature, use it to your advantage. This will enable you to schedule charging sessions or utilise off-peak electricity rates automatically, optimising the battery’s charging times and minimising energy costs.

The Cost of Replacing an EV Battery

The cost of replacing an EV battery can vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle, with larger and more advanced EV batteries tending to have higher replacement costs. Fortunately, some EV manufacturers offer warranty coverage for battery replacement within a certain timeframe or mileage limit.

If you’re planning to buy an EV, you should familiarise yourself with the terms of the warranty of the manufacturer you plan to buy your vehicle from to understand their coverage options. Generally speaking, however, the estimated cost to have an EV battery replaced is around GBP 7,000.

While it’s good to have some general knowledge of an EV, learning about its individual parts can help you maximise its benefits. By getting a better understanding of its battery, as well as its battery life and functions, you’ll take better care of the vehicle, making you a more responsible EV owner.