With their rapid rise in popularity, a common question is how long electric cars typically last and whether they have the same lifespan as internal combustion engine vehicles. Based on gathered data from tests and real-world use, modern electric cars, when driven normally—not aggressively—usually last about 10 to 15 years or roughly 150,000 to 300,000 kilometers or more before requiring replacement of costly key components like the battery if continued use is desired. It appears electric cars may have a longer lifespan than combustion engine vehicles.
Of course, batteries degrade over time, especially with frequent DC fast charging. However, modern electric car batteries are expected to last 10 to 15 years and typically outlive other vehicle components if properly maintained. Using AC charging that provides a steady current without speeding up charging with high-powered DC that causes sustained high temperatures helps extend battery life. Another frequently replaced component, especially for fast drivers and dual-motor EVs, is tires, which endure more weight and torque than combustion cars and wear out first with daily rapid acceleration.
Key factors affecting lifespan
Battery lifespan: Most electric car manufacturers offer warranties of 8 years or 150,000 to 250,000 kilometers, claiming batteries retain over 80% capacity, with an average lifespan exceeding 15 years. This remains to be seen since most electric cars have only been on the road for 2 to 4 years so far.
Electric vehicle use and maintenance: Regular daily charging, parking in shade, and using AC charging help extend battery life, which typically degrades about 1.8% annually.
Vehicle components: With fewer moving parts, electric cars require less maintenance than combustion engine vehicles, resulting in generally longer durability under normal, non-aggressive use.
Range loss over time: Although electric cars can last 10 to 15 years, the driving range gradually decreases due to battery degradation. This range loss can vary from 100,000 to over 200,000 kilometers depending on usage habits.
Electric vehicles (EVs) have far fewer wear parts than internal combustion engine (ICE) cars. They lack transmissions, spark plugs, and oil filters. Their regenerative braking reduces brake pad wear, extending overall component life. The component most frequently replaced remains tires.
New EV owners often worry about the battery, as replacing a high-voltage battery can cost several hundred thousand baht. However, battery failure rendering the car unusable is rare unless caused by accidents. Newer battery models are also more durable than those from 4 to 5 years ago.
Most current electric cars come with at least an 8-year battery warranty, often guaranteeing at least 70% capacity retention after 8 years. User data and owner reports show average battery degradation of about 1.8 to 2.3% annually under normal use. After 5 years, battery capacity typically drops to 85–95% of original range, and after 8–10 years, to 75–85%, which remains sufficient for daily driving.
Electric cars have fewer moving parts—no pistons, valves, timing chains, or multi-speed transmissions. Their brakes wear less due to regenerative braking. Reduced vibration and heat lessen long-term component fatigue. The main risks are long-term battery performance, ongoing software support from manufacturers that remain in business, and battery damage from accidents.
Today, electric cars are expected to have lifespans comparable to gasoline vehicles and may surpass them as battery technology improves. Current drawbacks compared to combustion cars include higher tire wear; minor early issues with infotainment and driver assistance systems; challenges finding charging stations on long holiday trips; and limited range—typically 350–400 kilometers—which can be inconvenient. Overall, however, EVs are generally more economical than fuel-powered cars.