How Long Do Tesla Batteries Last?

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How Long Do Tesla’s Batteries Last

Electric car buyers are usually concerned with the range of their vehicles. However, the technology integrated into electric cars is advancing every day. From the first electric car designed in the 1800s, modern EVs have come a long way. There have been significant improvements in EV technology, such as better battery cell chemistry, battery management systems, and improved structural design.

Tesla first launched its mass-produced EV, Model S, in 2012, making it more than a decade since its introduction. Tesla has been the leader in EV tech, and most models can easily drive 300 miles on a single charge.

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Still, the question many EV buyers have is, how long do Tesla batteries last? In reality, several factors affect the range of any electric car.

Usually, Tesla cars can cover a minimum of 260 miles on a single charge. Tesla aims for its batteries to last 300,000 to 500,000 miles. However, Tesla does not explicitly state cycle life in their public disclosures. This is around 22 to 37 years for an average person.

Tesla Batteries Range

The provided ranges for Tesla models are approximate and can vary based on factors like battery age, driving conditions, and software updates.

Model 3 (Standard Range) = 267 miles
Model 3 (Long Range) = 334 miles
Model 3 (Performance) = 315 miles
Model S = 375 miles
Model S (Plaid) = 348 miles
Model X = 332 miles
Model X (Plaid) = 313 miles
Model Y (Long Range) = 318 miles
Model Y (Performance) = 303 miles

Tesla Model Y, Model X, Model S, and Model 3 offer different ranges on a full charge. In addition, Tesla cars adjust the available mile range according to driving conditions. This helps to get the most out of your Tesla car battery.

The specific range of a Tesla EV battery depends not only on your battery capacity but also on your driving style. Still, the most extended range of Tesla EV cars is around 375 miles for Model S on a full charge.

To put it in perspective, a single fully-charged Tesla Model 3 Standard battery can take you from Las Vegas to Los Angeles without recharging. On the other hand, a full-charged Model S can provide an even longer range.

Regardless of the battery capacity, Tesla EVs can easily take you back and forth on your daily commute. Thanks to the Tesla Supercharger stations nationwide, you can even enjoy long road trips in your Tesla.

How long before Tesla batteries need to be replaced?

There are not many EVs that have needed battery replacement till now. The cost of replacing a Tesla battery can vary widely depending on the model and circumstances of the replacement. Tesla has not publicly listed a fixed price range for battery replacements so that the cost may vary.

However, these prices are expected to decrease as the overall cost of batteries gets lowered. It is safe to say that an average Tesla battery can support your EV for 500,000 miles but with a lesser mileage per charge.

You must also know that battery degradation affects battery life and the car’s range. This is more so if you charge from empty to full charge every day. Tesla battery degradation varies, but some studies and user reports indicate that the battery may retain about 90% of its original capacity after 160,000 miles, affecting range rather than the car’s overall performance. So, your Tesla should perform satisfactorily for a long time.

Despite this, you don’t have to worry too much about battery replacement, thanks to Tesla’s warranty. Depending on the model, it covers 100,000 – 150,000 miles of range, or 8 years, whichever occurs first. Put, you can drive your Tesla Model Y for 41 miles per day (15,000 miles per year) within the 8-year warranty period.

Additionally, Model S and Model X are good for going 52 miles per day (18,750 miles per year) before the battery’s warranty is over.

Replacing Tesla Batteries

The need to replace a Tesla battery depends on individual user experience and degradation level, not strictly on a 20% loss of range. Tesla’s warranty may cover significant capacity loss under certain conditions. Reportedly, Tesla cars lose 5% of battery performance after 100,000 miles. The company claims that Tesla batteries can last from 300,000 to 500,000 miles.

For instance, if you drive your Tesla up to 270 miles per week, you can expect the car battery to last between 21 and 35 years.

Therefore it is safe to say that Tesla batteries will rarely need to be replaced. You may likely have to replace your EV before replacing your car battery.

Conclusion

As with smartphones, car batteries also tend to experience a decrease in overall charge. However, you can’t replace a Tesla battery as easily and affordably as you do with your smartphone battery. Thus, knowing how to care for your EV’s battery is essential.

Tesla advises that Supercharging is safe for regular use and has designed its battery and software to manage the effects of fast charging. Optimal battery care includes following Tesla’s guidance on charging practices. Do not charge your car battery over 80% unless needed for the range. Besides this, you should maintain a regular battery-checking schedule and improve your driving habits to get the most out of a Tesla car battery.

TechnoWifi