Batteries in electric vehicles are lasting much longer than anticipated and beyond the standard warranty, service analysis reveals.
A major player in long-term leasing and a specialist in mobility solutions, Arval unveils the results of its analysis on the health status of its electric vehicle batteries.
Electric vehicle batteries: longevity well beyond standard warranties
Representing between 20% and 30% of the cost of an EV at purchase, the battery is an essential component, but also a potential source of concern for used vehicle buyers. Indeed, a common misconception still hinders the adoption of EVs – that their battery degrades too quickly, thus reducing the vehicle’s kilometer range. Arval’s analysis shows that this degradation, although inevitable, is generally very limited and much slower than assumed:
- Of the 8,300 EVs tested, the average battery health was 93% – 100% being the theoretical health status of the battery when the vehicle is first put on the road.
- The vast majority (98%) of the measured health statuses are above 80%.
- After traveling 70,000 kms, the average battery state of health of an EV is 93%.
- Beyond 200,000 kms, the health status remains close to 90% on average.
By advocating transparency in battery health data, Arval encourages its sector to continue in this direction and generalize the use of battery health certificates. This initiative illustrates Arval’s desire to promote an intelligent and informed adoption of used EVs, while strengthening buyer confidence.
The view from the UK
Gary Burns, Remarketing Director at Arval UK, said, “In the UK, state-of-health of the battery is an important factor for our buyers – both consumers and motor dealers. In 2024, we began testing on our used EVs at some UK sites, with around 1,400 used cars going through this process so far.
“Our solution displays the data the car holds on its current state of battery health to show how much of the battery capacity is still usable. The information can then be shared with our customers so they have a current view of the performance of the battery.
“As a growing number of customers transition to battery electric vehicles, it’s vital that we’re transparent throughout our sales processes. Battery health is an important factor when it comes to electric vehicles, so buyers need access to clear, accurate details.
“This initiative does that, and is a key part of our broader commitment to electric vehicle education and supporting our customers in making sustainable, informed choices.”
