When it comes to electric cars, a common concern is how long their batteries will last. Many folks worry they’ll need costly replacements sooner rather than later. But here’s a real-life story that might change your mind.
In Canada, a 2016 Tesla Model S 90D has been in use as a taxi for over 310,000 miles – that’s more than 500,000 kilometers – without needing a new battery. That’s right, the original battery is still going strong.
Now, you might think electric car batteries are like the ones in our phones, wearing out after a couple of years. But this Model S proves that’s not always the case. In fact, some electric car batteries can keep running for a very long time.
This particular Model S did need a few fixes along the way, like new brakes, suspension parts, and even some fancy features like the soft-close trunk. But here’s the kicker: the battery, which is usually the most expensive part to replace, only degraded by 12% after nine years.
What’s even more impressive is that this Model S was charged mostly at Supercharger stations. You might have heard that fast charging can wear out batteries faster, but this car seems to disagree.
This isn’t even the highest-mileage Tesla Model S in the taxi company’s fleet. They have another one that surpassed 435,000 miles (700,000 kilometers)! It did need a new battery at one point, but it’s still out there on the road.
So, if you’re worried about electric car batteries not lasting, detailed lessons from this Model S taxi – they can keep going for a very, very long time.
Let’s check out more in detail about the batteries & their performance of different Tesla models.
Table of Contents
Tesla Model S Battery Degradation
In the ever-evolving landscape of electric vehicles, it’s not just about the price and range anymore. A remarkable testament to this fact resides in a 2016 Tesla Model S, quietly making waves in Canada.
With more than 500,000 kilometers under its wheels, what truly stands out is that its original battery has only deteriorated by a mere 12%. A feat made all the more impressive when you consider that this electric marvel was predominantly powered by Superchargers. This remarkable endurance serves as undeniable evidence that the manufacturer is keeping its promises when it comes to the quality of its battery technology.
Therefore, it becomes imperative to factor in battery wear when making a purchase, ensuring a smoother ownership experience free from unwelcome surprises. Tesla, a name synonymous with exceptional battery performance, is at the forefront of addressing this crucial concern.
Recent reports boast a mere 12% deterioration after approximately 321,800 kilometers of use for the Model S and Model X. But is that truly the extent of their capabilities?
And now another @CurrentTaxi @Tesla Model S has hit 500,000km (310,685 miles).
This 2016 Model S 90D still has the original:
-Battery (~12% degradation, full charge shows 412km compared to 455km new – mostly Supercharged – has free lifetime Supercharging)
-Motors
-AC System… https://t.co/JUy5zYx5ax pic.twitter.com/0cUOc95gqk— Drive Tesla 🇨🇦 (@DriveTeslaca) September 25, 2023
As it turns out, Tesla’s vehicles may surpass even these impressive figures. Case in point: a Model S 90D in Canada is currently causing a stir, having traversed over 500,000 kilometers on its original battery, a remarkable achievement documented by the Drive Tesla account on X (formerly Twitter).
However, this sedan holds yet another trump card to silence the critics of electric cars.
Battery Endurance Against the Odds
Now, the really interesting part is when we find out that the car battery has only gotten 12% worse. Even though the car has driven more than what the company expected. What makes this even cooler is that the car has been driven a lot, like a taxi, and it mainly gets charged up quickly at special stations.
A recent study says that fast charging doesn’t actually harm the battery, as long as you do a few things correctly. Like getting the battery ready for charging and not letting it go completely empty or completely full. According to the Drive Tesla account, a taxi driver’s Model S can go a maximum of 412 kilometers now, compared to 455 when it was brand new. This number might be a little different from the one they use in Europe, but it’s still super impressive.
But this isn’t just by luck or magic. It’s because the car has been taken care of really well, and also because of where it’s used. There’s a study that says electric car batteries don’t wear out as fast in really cold places.
Now, the Tesla Model S 90D is in Canada, a place known for its freezing weather. But in cold weather, you need to charge the car more often because the cold makes it use more power. It’s also cool to know that the Drive Tesla company has a Model S with 700,000 kilometers on it! But they had to change the battery pack to keep it going.
How Long Does a Tesla Model 3 Battery Last
One of the big worries when buying a Tesla Model 3 or any electric car is how long the battery will stay in good shape. People are concerned because these batteries cost more than the ones in regular cars, and fixing a Tesla can sometimes be more complicated than a regular car.
However, it’s important to know that Tesla is making batteries that are built to last a long time. Most experts believe that these batteries will outlive the cars themselves.
In April 2019, Tesla’s CEO Elon Musk said in a tweet that the Model 3 electric car is designed to last a really long time. He compared it to a commercial truck that can last for a million miles. When it comes to the battery, he mentioned that the Model 3’s battery modules should work well for about 300,000 to 500,000 miles, which is equivalent to around 1,500 charge cycles.
All Teslas can travel around 262 miles on one charge on average, but the Model 3 Performance stands out with an impressive 315 miles on a single charge. And if you have the long-range model, it gets even better, averaging about 353 miles before needing to recharge.
But, just like any car, a few things can affect how far your Model 3 can go on a single charge. Firstly, how you drive the car matters. If you drive aggressively, it can make the battery run out faster. To get the most mileage, it’s best to drive at steady speeds. This advice applies to regular gas cars too, as recommended by the U.S. Department of Energy to save fuel.
The condition of the road also plays a role. Hills and inclines can use up more energy, so the terrain matters. Even turning on the climate control system in your electric car can impact how many miles you can drive before needing to recharge.
To put that in perspective, in 2019, the average American drove about 14,263 miles per year. So, the Tesla Model 3’s battery could last between 21 and 35 years based on that estimate. This is reassuring because Musk also mentioned in the same tweet that replacing a Model 3 battery module might cost between $5,000 and $7,000.
Looking at data available as of 2016, it seemed that a Tesla battery pack could potentially reach 200,000 miles while still having at least 90% of its original capacity. There were some exceptions, but this means that in general, the Tesla Model 3 is a reliable choice when it comes to the overall life of its battery.
How Long Does a Tesla Model Y Battery Last
The Tesla Model Y comes with a big battery that will last you a whole day on the road in most cases. If you have the Performance Model Y, it can go about 303 miles on one full charge, according to Tesla. And if you go for the Long-Range Model Y, it can go even farther, about 330 miles on the same charge.
If you have a home charger, you can charge your electric car overnight and start your day with a full battery. And if you ever run low on power, don’t worry!
There are more than 35,000 Tesla Supercharging Stations all over the world, with about 1,400 of them in the United States. Just plug your Model Y into one of these stations, and Tesla says you can get around 200 miles of range in just 15 minutes of charging.
Exceeding Warranty Expectations
Tesla, like with its other cars, gives a warranty for the batteries in the Model Y. This warranty covers the battery of the Model Y Long-Range and Performance versions for eight years or up to 120,000 miles, whichever comes first. You can find this information on Tesla’s website, and it’s the same warranty they offer for the Model 3 electric cars.
From what we know about electric car batteries, Tesla’s batteries tend to last even longer than what their warranties promise. On average, the Model Y’s battery (just like the Model X’s) can go between 300,000 and 500,000 miles before it needs to be changed, with some exceptions.
If you drive around 20,000 miles each year, your Model Y can be on the road for 15 to 25 years. This is a great deal compared to the lifespan of gas-guzzling cars.
The new warranty for Tesla batteries and drive units covers two important things:
- How long you can use it or how many miles you can drive (either eight years or 100,000 to 150,000 miles, depending on the model), whichever happens first.
- It guarantees that your battery will still have at least 70% of its original capacity during the warranty period.
So, if you have a Model S, for instance, and your car’s battery loses more than 30% of its original capacity within eight years or 100,000 to 150,000 miles (whichever comes first), Tesla will fix any problems with the materials or workmanship for free.
Writer’s Note
All Tesla cars can go really far on one charge, especially when you compare them to other electric cars. And now, with more and more Tesla charging stations popping up all over the place, you can take these cars on big road trips without worrying too much. If you use a Model 3 for your daily commute, it should be just fine, and you might only need to charge it every few days.
If you pick a Model S, either version of it, you’ll have a lot of range for those long road trips. That means you won’t have to stop at Tesla’s super-fast charging stations, called Superchargers, too many times along the way. These cars also come with options like all-wheel drive (AWD), which can affect how quickly they charge but give you better performance.
For those who want to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels, Tesla’s cars have truly made a significant impact. Both Tesla’s Model X and Model Y have earned high praise from owners and experts.
In fact, according to U.S. News and World Report, they are ranked as the #3 and #4 best all-electric SUVs, respectively. The Model Y, in particular, stands out for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and long-lasting battery.
A common worry for people hesitant about buying an electric vehicle is how long the battery will last. No one wants to get stuck on the road with a dead battery. However, you’ll find that Tesla cars not only offer impressive mileage on a single charge but also have a longer lifespan than you might have initially thought. So, if you’re considering going electric, you can do so with confidence in Tesla’s reliability and performance.
Key Takeaways
- Battery Life and Degradation: When buying an electric car, factors like price and range are crucial, but it’s essential not to overlook battery life and degradation. Electric car batteries gradually lose capacity over time, which can be costly to replace.
- Tesla’s Impressive Battery Performance: Tesla’s Model S showcases exceptional battery performance, with a 2016 Model S in Canada having driven over 500,000 kilometers with only a 12% battery deterioration. This demonstrates Tesla’s commitment to quality battery technology.
- Battery Wear Consideration: Battery wear is crucial when buying an electric vehicle, as it affects long-term usability. Tesla vehicles, including the Model S and Model X, tend to surpass expected battery performance, as evidenced by their minimal degradation even after extensive use.
- Factors Affecting Range: How you drive, road conditions, and climate control usage can influence an electric car’s range. Maintaining steady speeds and minimizing aggressive driving can help maximize mileage.
- Tesla Model 3 Battery Longevity: Tesla is known for building batteries that outlast their warranties. Elon Musk’s 2019 tweet mentioned that Model 3 batteries should last between 300,000 to 500,000 miles or more, making them reliable for long-term use.
- Impressive Model 3 Range: The Model 3 offers impressive ranges, with the Model 3 Performance model providing up to 315 miles on a single charge and even longer for the long-range model.
- Model Y’s Battery Range: The Model Y offers substantial battery range, making it suitable for daily use and long trips. Home charging and access to Tesla Supercharging Stations provide convenience and flexibility for recharging.
- Tesla Battery Warranty: Tesla provides warranties for battery and drive units, offering coverage for eight years or up to a certain mileage threshold, ensuring peace of mind for owners.
- Long-Lasting Tesla Batteries: Tesla’s batteries tend to outlast their warranties, with Model Y batteries expected to last between 300,000 and 500,000 miles on average.
