- Battery health has become a crucial metric for evaluating used electric vehicles (EVs), surpassing traditional mileage as a measure of value.
- 2023 EVs maintain about 86% battery health at 90,000 miles, significantly better than 2016–2017 models at the same mileage.
- This advancement in battery technology highlights the importance of looking beyond mileage when assessing EV longevity and performance.
- Generational provides battery health certifications, offering buyers critical insights into a vehicle’s performance potential.
- Even older EVs can meet the needs of buyers with shorter commutes, provided they have reliable battery health assessments.
- Industry shifts, like Polestar’s battery health certificates, emphasize transparency and enhance buyer confidence.
- Understanding battery health is essential for navigating the evolving EV market and ensuring peace of mind.
The realm of electric vehicles (EVs) is on the cusp of a pivotal shift, one that could redefine how we perceive their longevity and value. As the demand for sustainable transportation surges, a new metric of vitality has emerged in the used EV market: battery health. Armed with fresh insights, buyers are beginning to look beyond mileage, the long-standing compass for car valuation, to assess the real worth of these innovative machines.
Consider a 2023 electric vehicle with an odometer reading 90,000 miles. Despite the impressive distance, these modern marvels retain, on average, 86% of their battery health. This statistic, provided by the EV battery certification experts at Generational, speaks volumes. It’s a stark contrast to 2016–2017 models, which manage a mere 76% at the same mileage. Such data highlights a quiet revolution in battery technology, underscoring the durable strides made in just a few years.
The transformation isn’t merely superficial. Even at a more modest 50,000 miles, a 2023 model’s battery holds over 5% better health than its older counterparts, making it a more enticing prospect for today’s discerning consumer. With EVs, longevity increasingly rests not in the miles traveled, but in the capacity to sustain energy, or as many are coming to view it, the “new mileage.”
This shift in perspective calls for a paradigm change among used EV retailers. Oliver Phillpott, the astute chief executive at Generational, advocates for an education of sorts, one that empowers buyers to recognize that a battery’s vitality is a more telling indicator of an EV’s future performance and reliability than the numbers on a dashboard.
The burgeoning field of battery health certification is poised to become a linchpin in this evolving landscape. By connecting their comprehensive testing platform to a vehicle’s OBD port, Generational benchmarks battery conditions against manufacturer data, equipping potential buyers with an invaluable tool for making informed decisions.
Yet, the allure of newer models doesn’t entirely eclipse the value of older electric vehicles. Phillpott wisely notes that these vehicles, harnessing slightly less vigorous batteries, can still cater to specific buyer needs, particularly those with shorter commutes or lower range demands. For such customers, an older EV, if equipped with a certified health assessment, represents not just a purchase, but a strategic and satisfactory match of lifestyle to technology.
As more early models flood the market and ex-fleet vehicles seek new homes, the call for transparency rings ever louder. Industry changes such as Polestar’s introduction of battery health certificates for its used models illustrate a growing commitment to customer reassurance. Armed with comprehensive energy assessments, sales teams can illuminate the road ahead, promising a journey free from the anxiety of unexpected breakdowns.
In the fast-evolving world of EVs, the message is clear: battery health isn’t just a number—it’s the heartbeat of the vehicle. For buyers navigating this electrified frontier, understanding and leveraging this metric will be key to unlocking unparalleled value and peace of mind. Whether eyeing a sleek modern model or a trusted older companion, the power to drive confidently into a sustainable future lies in deciphering what’s under the hood.
The Untapped Potential of Electric Vehicles: Why Battery Health is the New Mileage
The New Metric: Battery Health
In the rapidly expanding world of electric vehicles (EVs), battery health is emerging as a crucial factor, redefining how we assess their longevity and value. As drivers increasingly prioritize sustainability, understanding an EV’s battery vitality is becoming just as important as knowing its mileage or year of production. Recent developments suggest this trend is set to accelerate, with significant implications for consumers and the broader automotive industry.
Why Battery Health Matters
Battery health, often overlooked in favor of mileage, provides a more accurate reflection of an EV’s ability to perform over time. A well-maintained battery ensures consistent performance, longer range, and ultimately, greater satisfaction. New data by battery certification experts like Generational illustrate that recent models can retain up to 86% of their battery health at 90,000 miles, a marked improvement over older models which only retain 76% health at the same mileage. This advancement signifies major strides in battery technology over just a few years.
Real-World Use Cases
1. Buyer Behavior: Consumers looking to buy used EVs should prioritize battery health over mileage. A vehicle with lower mileage but poorer battery health may not perform as well or hold its value as much as one with higher mileage but excellent battery health.
2. Fleet Management: Companies managing EV fleets can benefit from regularly assessing battery health to ensure optimal performance. This approach can save costs related to battery replacement or unexpected downtimes.
3. Resale Value: For current EV owners, maintaining battery health through proper charging practices and regular check-ups enhances resale value, making the vehicle more attractive to potential buyers.
How-To Steps: Checking Battery Health
– OBD Port Connection: Use a diagnostic device connected to the vehicle’s OBD (on-board diagnostics) port to assess battery health.
– Certification Platforms: Turn to certified platforms like Generational that provide comprehensive battery health assessments.
– Regular Maintenance: Follow manufacturer guidelines for battery care, including appropriate charging routines and regular software updates.
Market Trends and Industry Insights
EV manufacturers, recognizing the importance of battery health, are beginning to offer certifications for their products. Brands like Polestar have introduced battery health certificates for pre-owned models, increasing transparency and trust with consumers. As the EV market continues to grow, more brands are expected to follow suit.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
– Enhanced Transparency: Battery health certifications offer buyers a clearer understanding of a vehicle’s condition.
– Informed Decisions: Buyers can make more informed choices, potentially reducing overall costs and improving longevity.
– Increased Resale Value: Owners maintaining good battery health can enjoy higher resale values.
Cons:
– Upfront Costs: Obtaining battery health assessments may involve an initial financial outlay, though often worth the investment.
– Technological Literacy: Potential barrier for those unfamiliar with using diagnostic tools or understanding battery metrics.
Actionable Tips for EV Owners
– Adopt Best Charging Practices: Avoid full discharges and overcharging to extend battery life.
– Stay Informed: Follow industry updates to stay aware of newer technologies and certifications that can influence your EV’s value.
– Seek Expert Advice: Consult with professionals or use trusted certification services for regular battery health evaluations.
Conclusion
As the landscape of electric vehicles continues to evolve, understanding and prioritizing battery health is essential. Whether you’re a potential buyer eyeing the latest model or a current owner of an older EV, keeping track of battery vitality will provide peace of mind and ensure that your investment continues to perform optimally over time.
With these insights in mind, take proactive steps to monitor and maintain your EV’s battery health. This approach not only maximizes the vehicle’s potential but also helps pave the way for a more sustainable and fulfilling driving future.
For more information on sustainable transportation and the latest in automotive technology, visit the Generational website.
