How Long Do Electric Car Batteries Last?

Usage Duration

• The typical lifespan of lithium car batteries ranges from 8 to 10 years.
• The effective lifespan (i.e., the time before the battery capacity drops to 70%) is about 5 to 7 years.

Cycle Life

• Ternary lithium batteries can generally handle between 800 and 1200 charge cycles.
• Lithium iron phosphate batteries (LFP) have a higher cycle life, ranging from 2000 to 2500 cycles.

Shelf Life

• According to the FreedomCAR and other US Department of Energy programs, the electric car battery system should have a shelf life of up to 15 years. This means that even if the vehicle is not in use, the battery should last at least 15 years.

Influencing Factors

• Charging and discharging habits: frequent charge and discharge, and deep discharge can shorten battery life.
• Environmental conditions: extreme temperatures (both high and low) can affect battery performance and longevity.
• Thermal management: Effective thermal management systems can extend battery life.

Electric Car Batteries Maintenance Recommendations

• Avoid overcharging and deep discharging: maintain battery charge levels between 20% and 80% to prevent excessive charging and discharging.
• Regular inspection and maintenance: periodically check and maintain the battery to ensure it remains in good condition.
• Consider environmental conditions: avoid using the battery in extreme temperatures to extend its lifespan.