If you’re still skeptical about the reliability of electric vehicles, new research might change your mind. A detailed examination of nearly 300 million vehicle inspections conducted in the United Kingdom from 2005 to 2022 has revealed that electric cars have an average lifespan of 18.4 years, matching that of their gasoline and diesel counterparts.
Significant Improvements in Reliability
Early generations of electric vehicles had a reputation for being less reliable. Issues ranged from temperamental batteries and frequent electronic failures to difficulties in replacing parts. However, the landscape has drastically shifted. According to a study published in Nature Energy, the failure rate of electric cars is decreasing by 12% annually, compared to 6.7% for gasoline models and 1.9% for diesels. This means that not only have electric vehicles become as reliable as traditional cars, but they are also improving at a much faster rate.
Several factors contribute to this advancement: a simpler design (fewer moving parts than a combustion engine), more durable batteries, and continuous improvements in onboard electronics. As a result, breakdowns are becoming less frequent and the lifespan of the vehicles is extending.
Range and Longevity: Comparing with Conventional Cars
Another highlight from the study is the ability of electric vehicles to rack up miles. On average, a modern electric model can travel up to 200,000 kilometers, compared to 187,000 km for a gasoline car. Diesel vehicles still hold an edge with an average of 257,000 km.
Among the top performers in longevity, Tesla leads the pack as the most durable electric vehicle, significantly surpassing models released a decade earlier.
A More Favorable Environmental Impact
The ecological question remains. Producing an electric vehicle initially generates more emissions than manufacturing a conventional car, mainly due to the batteries. However, with a longer lifespan, these emissions are better amortized over time. Additionally, as more countries opt for renewable and to some extent nuclear energy, the environmental benefits of electric vehicles become more apparent.
Of course, it’s not all perfect yet: the recycling of batteries remains a contentious issue and access to charging stations continues to be a barrier for some. Nevertheless, in terms of reliability and longevity, the argument that electric cars won’t last is becoming increasingly outdated.
In short, if you were hesitant to switch to electric due to fears of a risky purchase, this study should provide some reassurance. Even though it’s known that changing minds here can be quite a challenge!