High Mileage EVs
Electric vehicles (EVs) have transitioned from a niche market to mainstream acceptance, driven by advancements in technology and growing environmental awareness. One of the significant concerns for potential EV buyers has been the long-term reliability of these vehicles, particularly those with high mileage. Recent data and studies have shown that high-mileage electric cars are not only feasible but also reliable
Battery Longevity and Performance
The battery is the heart of an electric vehicle, and its longevity is a primary concern for owners and prospective buyers. Modern EV batteries are designed to last many years and thousands of miles. Manufacturers typically offer warranties that cover 8 years or around 100,000 miles, but real-world performance often exceeds these figures.
Studies have shown that EV batteries degrade more slowly than initially feared. For instance, a comprehensive study by a fleet management company found that the average battery degradation was only about 2.3% per year. This means that after 100,000 miles, many EVs still retain over 85% of their original battery capacity. Tesla has reported that its vehicles can maintain around 90% of their battery capacity even after 200,000 miles.
Mechanical Reliability
Electric vehicles have fewer moving parts compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. The absence of components such as the exhaust system, gearbox, and many other mechanical parts means there are fewer things that can go wrong. This inherently makes EVs more reliable in the long term.
A study in America found that high-mileage EVs like the Tesla Model S and Nissan Leaf showed remarkable reliability even after years of use. The regenerative braking system in EVs also reduces wear and tear on brake parts, contributing to lower maintenance costs and longer-lasting components. There are numerous examples of high-mileage electric cars that demonstrate their reliability. Currently, Auto Trader are testing a Tesla Model S that has done 430,000 miles on original components.
Manufacturer Support and Updates
Continuous software updates provided by manufacturers like Tesla have also played a role in maintaining the reliability and performance of high-mileage EVs. These updates can improve battery management, enhance vehicle features, and even fix minor issues without the need for a physical service visit.
Because of all these reasons I cannot see me selling my own car for the foreseeable future. While I admit I don’t do high mileage, I still plan on keeping my Tesla Model 3 for as long as it is practical to use.
