Electric Vehicles and Their Lifespans: How Do They Compare to Combustion Engine Cars?
Electric vehicles (EVs) are often seen as low-maintenance, eco-friendly alternatives to traditional combustion engine cars. But how do EVs hold up over time? From battery longevity to repair needs, here’s an in-depth look at EV lifespans compared to combustion engine vehicles, including insights on maintenance costs and expected durability.
Battery Life and Vehicle Lifespan
The heart of an electric vehicle is its battery, which generally determines the car’s longevity. Most EVs today are equipped with lithium-ion batteries designed to last 10 to 20 years, depending on usage and maintenance. According to Consumer Reports, modern EV batteries are expected to retain a minimum of 70% to 80% of their original capacity after about 8 to 10 years.
Manufacturers typically offer warranties on EV batteries that last 8 years or 100,000 miles (whichever comes first), which provides assurance to drivers. Tesla, for example, guarantees its Model 3 battery for 8 years or 120,000 miles. Real-world data shows that Tesla batteries retain around 80-90% of their original capacity even after 150,000 miles, according to Electrek.
In comparison, combustion engine vehicles have an average lifespan of around 10 to 15 years or 150,000 to 200,000 miles. However, they often require major repairs, such as engine or transmission overhauls, to reach this mileage.
Maintenance and Repair Needs
One of the major advantages of EVs is their simpler mechanical structure, which reduces the need for maintenance and repairs. EVs don’t have the complex engine systems found in gas-powered cars, meaning they lack components such as oil filters, timing belts, and fuel pumps. This leads to fewer routine maintenance tasks, translating to long-term savings for owners.
A report from Consumer Reports suggests that EVs cost half as much to maintain and repair over their lifespans compared to traditional cars. Over the first 5 years, EV owners can expect to save an average of $4,600 on maintenance alone. Battery replacement is the primary concern, but most drivers are likely to trade in or sell their EVs before the battery reaches the end of its life.
Combustion engine vehicles, by contrast, often face expensive repairs as they age, such as exhaust system replacements, oil changes, and engine repairs. AAA reports that maintaining a combustion engine vehicle costs an average of $0.09 per mile over its lifespan, whereas EVs average around $0.04 per mile.
Potential Battery Replacement Costs
One of the biggest considerations for EV owners is the cost of battery replacement. EV battery replacements can range from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the model and battery capacity. However, as battery technology advances, costs are expected to decrease. Some companies, such as Nissan, have programs that offer refurbished batteries at a lower price, making replacements more affordable.
For gas-powered cars, costly repairs typically come in the form of engine or transmission replacements, which can also cost thousands. However, combustion engines don’t typically face a single large expense equivalent to a full battery replacement.
Weighing-in
Electric vehicles offer a durable and lower-maintenance alternative to combustion engine cars, with lifespans largely determined by battery performance. While EVs have fewer mechanical issues and cost less to maintain, battery replacement remains a significant consideration. As battery technology advances and becomes more affordable, the gap in lifespan and repair costs between EVs and traditional cars is expected to continue shrinking, making EVs an increasingly viable long-term option for eco-conscious drivers.