How Long Do Electric Car Batteries Last?

You likely already know that new models like the Volvo XC40 Recharge offer over 200 miles of driving range on a single charge. With powerful batteries being added to more and more vehicles, electric vehicle (EV) design is becoming stronger by the day. That said, even the best batteries need to be replaced from time to time.
So, how long do electric car batteries last? Thankfully, your electric car battery life expectancy far surpasses the battery life of the household items you’re familiar with. In fact, electric car battery lifespans can last from 10 to 20 years depending on the particular battery, make, and model! Review our research guide below to learn about electric car battery life expectancy estimates and so much more!
Why Does Electric Car Battery Life Expectancy Matter?
EVs offer a lot of benefits, so preserving the lifespan of the battery that powers your ride is a wise move. Electric cars are better for the environment and easier to maintain than their gas-powered counterparts. Even still, some are hesitant to give up the keys to their gas-guzzling ride. This is understandable when you hear that an EV battery replacement can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000.
While the sticker price for a new EV battery can be jarring, it’s not an expense you should expect to incur. Many EV manufacturers offer a 10-year warranty on their EV batteries. In fact, eight years or 100,000 miles is the minimum amount that can be offered as an EV battery warranty here in the U.S. With a lifespan of up to 20 years, chances are you won’t be driving your EV when it’s time for a fresh battery!
Maximizing an Electric Car’s Battery Life
When driving from Interlochen to Kalkaska, there are a number of ways that you can modify your habits to improve the battery life expectancy of your EV. Here are a few tips and tricks to help you get the most life out of your EV battery:
- Resist the temptation to charge your vehicle each night. Instead, do your best to keep your vehicle between 20% and 80% charged.
- Stay out of the heat as often as you can. Cold weather can drain a battery’s charge, while extreme heat can reduce a battery’s overall lifespan.
- Charge slowly when possible. Using DC Fast Charging Stations can be convenient, but overuse can degrade your battery.
- Using large amounts of power in a short period of time can degrade your battery. So, you should try to drive in an even, mild-manner way as often as possible.
Explore EV Ownership with Serra Volvo Cars of Traverse City!
Now that you know that you can answer the question “How long do electric car batteries last?”, you can confidently upgrade with a Volvo EV today! When you visit us near Garfield Township for a test drive, our team will study your wishlist and quickly get you behind the wheel of the eco-friendly ride you deserve! If you have any lingering questions about electric car battery life expectancy or the EV models we sell, contact us at your convenience. We’ll be happy to help you study all things electric vehicles!