Range resilience. Range distance. Range confidence. Let’s face it – two of the big questions that every electric vehicle (EV) owner ponders: “How far can I travel on a single charge?” And “Will there be a charger available when I need one?”
Today’s electric vehicles have become increasingly appealing, with 81% of EV owners expressing a clear preference for purchasing another EV for their next car. This preference is fueled by advancements in battery technology, leading to enhanced range. Moreover, the continuous expansion of EV charging infrastructure nationwide further reinforces confidence in extended range capabilities.
The convenience of Level 2 (L2) charging for daily use, and DC Fast Charging (DCFC) for longer journeys and fleet usage, highlights the practicality of owning an EV. It’s essential to ensure the availability of suitable chargers at strategic locations and times to maintain range confidence.
This sense of community plays a vital role, motivating individuals to not only choose EVs but also actively engage and invest in the broader EV ecosystem. The combination of extended range, available charging solutions, and a supportive community makes owning an EV an increasingly compelling choice for drivers.
Advancements in EV Battery Technology
Durable EV batteries are boosting confidence by providing increased range and reliable travel support across a growing range of EV models. Even with current lithium-ion technology, EV batteries showcase impressive durability and sustained energy retention. With an extended lifespan, they reduce the need for replacements, minimize environmental impacts, and lower ownership costs.
When considering the typical 3-5 year lifespan of a lead-acid battery in a conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle, many drivers assume that an EV battery requires regular replacement. However, an electric car’s lithium-ion battery may last as long as the vehicle itself. Battery technology monitors the battery State of health (SoH), indicating degradation and remaining capacity. Typically, when the SoH reaches 70%, it’s considered the end of battery life. According to a study on the second usage of EV batteries conducted by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, EV batteries “will retain approximately 70% of their initial capacity remaining and potentially operate for an additional 10 years in their second use when treated properly.” As per Altelium research, “a standard automotive cell could be at 80% SoH in its hard usage profile case after around four years, but it takes 15 years to get to the same state with easy usage.” This data should instill confidence in users regarding their vehicles’ range performance and battery life. Heightened resilience effectively addresses a key concern for prospective EV adopters, instilling trust in the sustainability and practicality of electric mobility solutions.
To address apprehensions about battery reliability in contemporary electric vehicles, manufacturers integrate advanced Battery Management Systems. Most manufacturers provide battery warranties lasting seven or eight years, assuring consumers that EV batteries are expected to last.
In recent years, alternative battery technologies, such as sodium-ion (Na-ion) batteries, have emerged as potentially transformative. Na-ion batteries present advantages such as lower-cost materials and the absence of critical minerals, making them a cost-effective and environmentally friendly choice. Despite lower energy density, Na-ion batteries may find suitability for urban vehicles or stationary storage. They are gaining ground with several manufacturing plants operational or under construction.
