Used Tesla Battery Degradation Slows After Initial Decline

EV Battery Degradation: A Canadian Perspective on a High-Mileage Tesla Model 3

A recent study on a 2022 Tesla Model 3 Long Range Dual Motor has shed light on the effects of heavy use on electric vehicle (EV) battery degradation. The vehicle, previously used as a Hertz rental car, was purchased by its current owner, Fast Forward EV, with only 80% of its original battery capacity remaining after just two years of use and 122,000 miles on the odometer. For Canadian buyers, this raises important questions about the long-term durability of EV batteries, particularly in the context of Canada's harsh climate and the potential impact on the vehicle's range and resale value.

Measuring Battery Degradation

The owner measured the battery degradation using Tesla's built-in battery health check, which provides an accurate assessment of the battery's state of health. The test, which requires the vehicle to be plugged in, discharges the battery to near empty, and then fully charges it to 100%, measuring the number of kilowatt-hours it can still take. This test is particularly relevant for Canadian EV owners, who can take advantage of the Canadian government's iZEV incentives and provincial rebates to purchase EVs, but may be concerned about the potential impact of cold temperatures on battery performance. In this case, the battery had lost an additional 4% of its capacity after the first year, but only 1% over the next 14 months, suggesting that the rate of degradation had slowed.

Factors Contributing to Battery Degradation

EV battery experts agree that the heaviest battery degradation occurs early on, and this is likely a factor in this particular instance. Frequent fast charging to 100% and running the car down to near empty can also contribute to heavy degradation, as can exposure to extreme temperatures. Canadian EV owners can mitigate these effects by charging their vehicles at home, keeping the battery level between 20% and 80%, and avoiding extreme temperatures. By taking these precautions, Canadian owners can help extend the life of their EV batteries and maintain their vehicle's range and performance.

Implications for Canadian EV Owners

The study's findings have important implications for Canadian EV owners, who may be considering purchasing a high-mileage EV or are concerned about the long-term durability of their vehicle's battery. While a scary state-of-health number may not tell the whole story, it is essential to consider the rate of degradation and whether the battery has settled into a slower, more predictable aging curve. Canadian owners can also take advantage of resources such as Natural Resources Canada's website, which provides information on EV battery durability and maintenance. By understanding the factors that contribute to battery degradation and taking steps to mitigate them, Canadian EV owners can help ensure their vehicles remain reliable and efficient over time.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the study of this high-mileage Tesla Model 3 provides valuable insights into the effects of heavy use on EV battery degradation. While the vehicle's battery has suffered significant degradation, the rate of degradation has slowed, suggesting that the battery has settled into a more predictable aging curve. For Canadian EV owners, this study highlights the importance of proper battery maintenance and care, particularly in the context of Canada's harsh climate. By taking the necessary precautions and staying informed about EV battery durability, Canadian owners can help extend the life of their vehicles and maintain their performance and range over time. With the Canadian government's iZEV incentives and provincial rebates available to support the adoption of EVs, Canadian buyers can feel confident in their purchase, knowing that they are investing in a reliable and efficient vehicle that will provide years of trouble-free service.