One of the biggest concerns for potential electric vehicle buyers, especially those considering the second-hand market, is whether a used electric vehicle (EV) loses performance over time or not. It's a regular question to our Nevo experts and whilst early-generation EVs may have suffered from noticeable battery degradation, advancements in modern battery technology have made this issue far less of a concern today. Let’s break it down a bit.

How do early Electric Vehicles fare out?

In the early days of electric mobility, some models, particularly those without advanced thermal management systems, experienced more rapid battery degradation. Vehicles like the first-generation Nissan Leaf, which lacked an active cooling system, were known to lose battery capacity faster, especially in hotter climates where excessive heat accelerated cell degradation. Some early EV owners reported range losses of 20-30% within the first few years of ownership, which understandably raised concerns about long-term viability. However, as battery technology evolved, manufacturers began implementing more robust cooling and management systems, significantly improving battery lifespan.

Understanding EV Performance and Battery Health

When people talk about an EV losing performance, they typically refer to two main factors: battery degradation and power output. Unlike combustion engines, which can lose efficiency due to wear and tear on moving parts, EVs rely on electric motors that generally require little maintenance and experience minimal performance loss over time. Instead, the biggest factor influencing an EV’s longevity is its battery health. Lithium-ion batteries, which power the vast majority of EVs, naturally degrade over time. This means they gradually lose their ability to hold as much charge, which can result in a reduction in driving range. However, this process is typically slow, and modern EVs are equipped with sophisticated battery management systems (BMS) are designed to optimise charging and discharging cycles, reducing long-term degradation.

Todays EVs and Battery Longevity

Today, most modern EVs suffer far less from noticeable performance loss, thanks to several key improvements:

1. Better Battery Chemistry: Advances in lithium-ion technology, including the introduction of more durable cathode materials and solid-state battery research, have increased the longevity of EV batteries. Many manufacturers now offer warranties of 8 years or 160,000km (whichever comes first), with most batteries retaining over 80% capacity within that period.

2. Thermal Management Systems: Active cooling and heating systems help regulate battery temperature, preventing excessive wear due to extreme heat or cold. This is particularly beneficial for drivers in Ireland, where fluctuating temperatures can impact battery efficiency.

3. Smart Charging Technology: Modern EVs feature advanced BMS that prevent overcharging and deep discharging, two primary factors that contribute to battery wear. Many manufacturers also recommend keeping the battery charge between 20-80% for everyday use to extend its lifespan.

4. Regenerative Braking and Efficiency Gains: Unlike internal combustion engine vehicles, which experience mechanical wear over time, EVs benefit from regenerative braking, reducing the strain on traditional braking components and improving overall efficiency.

So what does all this mean for used EV Buyers?

For those considering a used EV, the key takeaway is that while some battery degradation is inevitable, it is generally slow and manageable in modern models. A well-maintained EV with a healthy charging routine will still provide excellent range and performance for many years.

If you're in the market for a used EV, it’s wise to check:

• Battery health reports (some manufacturers provide a percentage reading of remaining capacity)

• Service history (regular software updates can improve efficiency)

• Charging habits of the previous owner (excessive use of DC fast charging isn’t great and can accelerate degradation)

The Verdict

While our experts acknowledge some early-generation EVs suffered from noticeable performance loss due to battery degradation, today’s models are built to last! With improved battery chemistry, advanced management systems, and better cooling technology, range loss is far less of an issue than it once was. If properly maintained, a used EV remains a reliable, efficient, and environmentally friendly option, making the transition to electric mobility more accessible than ever.