Electric Vehicle (EV) vs. Traditional Car Battery Lifespan and Cost Comparison

The lifespan of electric vehicle (EV) batteries is an important factor for consumers weighing the pros and cons of going electric. Comparing this with the lifespan of traditional car batteries, which power engines via alternators, helps to evaluate the total cost of ownership.

Comparing EV and Traditional Car Batteries

Traditional car batteries, which are used primarily to start the engine, typically last about 5 years. These batteries are small and compact, designed to handle the initial cranking of an ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) vehicle. However, when an ICE is running, the alternator takes over, supplying power for all the vehicle’s electrical needs. In contrast, EV batteries are significantly larger and more robust. They are responsible for not only starting the vehicle but also powering the entire operation. With advances in battery technology and improved charging habits, EV batteries are now expected to last at least 10 years, with some manufacturers like Tesla guaranteeing their batteries for up to 20 years.

Recharge Cycles and Battery Life

The performance of an EV battery is measured by the number of full charges it can handle. Assuming a full charge provides approximately 250 miles, and an average EV can travel 300 to 500,000 miles in its life, this equates to about 1,500 full charge cycles. While the actual number can vary due to driving habits and temperature management, proper thermal and charging management can extend this significantly.

Cost-Effectiveness of Electric Vehicles

A report from the U.S. Department of Transportation provides a cost comparison between battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEs). According to the study, a BEV is more economical, especially over a long period such as 178,000 miles. The comparison assumes both vehicles are scrapped at the end of their useful life.

The lifecycle cost includes initial purchase, maintenance, and battery replacements. For the Tesla Model Y, the base cost of a new vehicle is $75,926 with a $16,975 federal tax credit, making it effectively $58,951. A 10-year-old Ford Edge ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) costs $43,720, assuming it lasts another 10 years.

Breaking Down the Costs

Tesla Model Y:

Purchase Cost: $58,951 Depreciation (Scrap Value): $58,951 (assuming discarded at 178,000 miles) Battery Replacement Cost: $21,000 to $24,000 (firmed at 2.5% degradation) Charging Cost: 7 cents per mile, approx. $28,600 (20 years at 100,000 miles per year)

The total cost is approximately $88,551, or 28.6 cents per mile (28,600 / 178,000 miles).

Ford Edge ST (ICE):

Purchase Cost: $43,720 Depreciation (Scrap Value): $43,720 (assuming discarded at 178,000 miles) Gasoline and Fuel Costs: 3.50/gallon (3.5 cents per mile) or 2.50/gallon (2.5 cents per mile) Oil Changes: Not quantified but generally cost between $30 to $50 per service, every 7,500 to 10,000 miles.

The total cost is approximately $58,450, or 24.0 cents per mile (assuming 3.50/gallon resale after 178,000 miles).

Long-Term Battery Degradation

Tesla explicitly defines battery usefulness at 70% of its original range. This indicates that, even after 100,000 miles, a battery might still be useful but with reduced efficiency. This is a critical factor in the total cost of ownership for an EV.

The cost of a new battery for the Tesla Model Y is estimated at $21,000 to $24,000, which adds an additional 6.9 cents per mile to the total cost, making it 35.5 cents per mile in total expenses.

In comparison, the Ford Edge, assuming the engine needs to be replaced after 350,000 miles at an estimated cost of $8,000, adds 2.3 cents per mile, bringing the total to 26.3 to 23.1 cents per mile.

Conclusion

The transition to EVs comes with significant initial investment but has the potential to save money over the long term, especially in terms of lower maintenance and operational costs. As technology improves, the lifespan of EV batteries is expected to increase, further justifying the shift towards electric vehicles.